Jay Som Teams Up with Hayley Williams for "Past Lives" Video
Jay Som has released the video for “Past Lives,” a collaboration with Paramore’s Hayley Williams, ahead of her performance at Pitchfork Festival London on Saturday, 8th November. The song is from her first album in over six years, Belong, which has quickly become a fan favorite, praised as a slow-burning indie gem.
About the "Past Lives" Video
The new animated video, directed by Daniel Topete, vividly captures the song’s theme of spiraling reflection with striking colors and imagery.
Jay Som’s Return with Belong
Released earlier this year on Lucky Number, Belong marks Jay Som’s confident comeback after a long hiatus from solo work. Since her 2019 album Anak Ko, Jay Som—real name Melina Duterte—has built an impressive indie music résumé, producing and engineering for artists such as boygenius, Lucy Dacus, Troye Sivan, and Beabadoobee. She also toured with boygenius, contributing guitar and vocals.
Critical Acclaim
- The Observer described Belong as “a reminder of why she’s one of the most quietly brilliant artists around.”
- DIY praised the album as “assured, emotionally rich and full of depth.”
- The Guardian highlighted “Past Lives” as “the perfect soundtrack to getting introspective as the dark nights draw in.”
Artist’s Reflection
Belong is about “trying to find where I fit after stepping away for a while,” said Duterte.
Across 11 tracks, the album explores this personal journey.
Author’s Summary
Jay Som’s new album Belong and its standout track “Past Lives” showcase her heartfelt return, blending introspective lyrics with indie artistry and notable collaborations.