Jxckson, Null & Void

Reading Time: 3 min read

In the 40^th edition of COVERS (2023), Jxckson delivers a compelling rendition of “Null & Void,” originally performed by Russian duo, t.A.T.u..

“My life is null and void / Dismantled and destroyed.” Ah, it’s time to get cozy and totally cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS focuses solely on the musician who covers, as opposed to the original/most famous performer. It is open to both established musicians and musicians who may not be as well-known. In the 40^th edition of COVERS (2023), Jxckson delivers a compelling rendition of “Null & Void”, originally performed by Russian duo, t.A.T.u..

What makes a good cover? Ideally, the covering artist preserves the sanctity of the original , as well as makes their cover their own . Of his cover of “Null & Void”, originally performed by Russian musical duo t.A.T.u. ( t.A.T.u. – The Best, 2006), Austin-based alt-pop artist Jxckson asserts, “This rendition brings a darker, more vulnerable twist to the original, delving into the theme of someone who knows they’re being used – a sinister Stockholm syndrome tale.”

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Just for some additional context, Stockholm syndrome is an emotional response [that] happens to some abuse and hostage victims when they have positive feelings toward an abuser or captor [WebMD]. Not only does Jxckson articulate the tweaks made on this aughts song, but he also makes “Null & Void” sound as if he could have originally performed it .

sleeping “Contradict me when you’re in the wrong / Don’t commit to anything at all.” The Jxckson rendition of “Null & Void” runs just under 3 minutes – about a minute-and-a-half shorter than the original. Produced by Gess, the sounds captures the mood of the original, yet feels as if it were born out of 2023. One of the biggest selling points besides the picturesque backdrop, with its prominent synths and hard-hitting percussion is… Jxckson – duh! Jxckson, who is known for his playful performances, sounds as if he’s toying with us as he sings. His breathy delivery in the verses is hypnotic – perfectly suited for the lyrics. It’s worth noting, by the tuneful chorus, he rises to the occasion, delivering more overt vocals. His tone sounds truly awesome here. For those unfamiliar with t.A.T.u., let alone “Null & Void” specifically, it would be easy to attribute it to Jxckson. As always, this talented musician puts in some serious work. The result? A stellar cover that sounds like it was always his song.