Rising pop singer/songwriter Julia Michaels delivers a sexy performance on single “Jump” featuring Trippie Redd.  Enjoyable, she could stand to pack more punch. 

Julia Michaels is a Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter.  Even being nominated for a Grammy is a big deal. Artistically, she has potential, arguably showcased best by “Issues.”  That said, “Issues” has received its share of fans and haters – it’s that type of record. Michaels is back with a new single, “Jump,” featuring rapper Trippie Redd.  The results are respectable, BUT…

“Jump” is a well-produced record by all means – give kudos to Nick Monson.  It’s set in a minor-key, features chilly synths and a slick, anchoring beat.  Basically, it fuses the best of urban, pop, and electronic worlds.  That’s the dominant sound these days, and “Jump” nails it. Vocally, Julia Michaels sounds sexy, singing in more of a low-key fashion – an undertone if you will.  This is a fair approach – sensual in nature – but it doesn’t necessarily make for the most engaging or intriguing vocal.  A bit more assertion and punch vocally would’ve helped to take “Jump” to another level.

Speaking of another level, compared to Trippie Redd actually sounds much more invested  and more commanding within the production.  His vocals are brighter and more enthusiastic, compared to Michaels nonchalance and subtlety.  Yes, this is Redd’s pop-rap style, but still, there’s a major difference between the performances – too much so.  Even after the energetic verse, Michaels never kicks into that next gear, which is arguably the biggest rub with this single.

Final Thoughts

As aforementioned, Julia Michaels has great potential – not everybody is nominated for a Grammy! She a highly-demanded songwriter who has the tools to be a successful pop star.  BUT, the next step in Michaels’ development as an artist is to truly BRING IT.  She lightly touches it on this pleasant number, but it be more potent if she added more OOMPH.

Julia Michaels • Jump (Ft. Trippie Redd) – Single • Republic • Release: 5.4.18

Photo Credit: Republic