Pop/Review Jojo Engelbert - Not a Real Blond
If you grew up in a family of talented siblings, would you shy away from the spotlight or step into it? If you're like punk-pop artist Jojo Engelbert, you not only step into the spotlight but blaze a trail of your own. While her siblings became Daytime-Emmy-nominated stars of Steal the Show and Ariel & Zoey & Eli Too through their light-hearted messages of support and vibrant pop fun, Jojo courageously explored and expressed the more shadowy sides of adolescence, relationships, and life.
"Not a Real Blond" by Jojo Engelbert takes listeners on a nostalgic trip down the grunge-filled memory lane of the '90s, delivering a raw and emotionally charged experience. The song kicks off with a distorted riff that immediately harkens back to the heyday of grunge music, setting the tone for what's to come.
Jojo Engelbert's vocals are a standout feature in this track, conveying the emotional tension and complexity of her attraction to a boy with fake blond hair. Her soaring and expressive singing adds depth to the narrative, effectively capturing the push-pull journey she's navigating. The central theme of authenticity in relationships, wondering if she can trust this boy, is a relatable and timeless struggle. Jojo manages to transcend the confines of the teenage experience and express her emotions in a way that resonates with a broad audience.
The choice of director for the music video, Jojo's father, Matt Engelbert, is a personal touch that adds authenticity to the overall production. The video, much like the song itself, is a visual journey through classic punk imagery, featuring barbed hearts and paper-clipped lyrics. It complements the song's grunge aesthetic and helps to enhance the storytelling.
"Not a Real Blond" captures the essence of '90s grunge music while addressing universal themes of trust, authenticity, and teenage emotions. Jojo Engelbert's compelling vocals and the video's nostalgic punk imagery create a memorable and relatable experience for fans of alternative rock and those who appreciate emotionally charged music. It's a well-executed piece that successfully channels the spirit of a bygone era while remaining relevant and engaging in the present day.