Jessie Reyez Discusses Love, Music, and Mushrooms in Latest Rolling Stone Feature
On April 15, 2025
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights
- Introduction
- A Journey Through Pain in Memories
- The Sonic Refuge: Music That Heals
- Culinary Connections: Honoring Her Roots
- Celebrating Toronto's Music Scene
- The Future of Jessie Reyez: Intentional Living and Artistic Growth
- FAQ
Key Highlights
- Jessie Reyez embraces a new chapter in her life through her latest album, Pain in Memories, exploring themes of personal growth and relationships.
- The singer reflects on the power of music as a source of comfort and healing, highlighting influential albums like The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.
- Reyez shares her unique perspective on mushrooms, discussing their potential role in healing and their cultural associations.
- The Toronto native celebrates her heritage, recommending local culinary delights and honoring fellow artist Drake for his contributions to music and the city.
Introduction
In an unexpected twist during a recent episode of Rolling Stone Recommends, Jessie Reyez found herself teetering on the edge of tears—not over her newly released album, Pain in Memories, but instead contemplating the idea of introducing aliens to love. This poignant moment underscores her current philosophy of living unapologetically and embracing what nourishes the soul. As Reyez navigates her artistic journey, she sheds light on her reflections regarding relationships, her choice to eschew alcohol for mushrooms, and the music that resonates deeply with her spirit.
A Journey Through Pain in Memories
Reyez’s new album, Pain in Memories, serves as a testament to her ongoing transformation and reinvention. Released to considerable acclaim, the album invites listeners on an introspective journey that captures her experiences with heartbreak and personal growth. Songs from Pain in Memories showcase Reyez's raw emotional depth, revealing candid reflections on her relationship with success and the quest for self-love.
“I’m currently sober, well, alcohol sober. I haven’t had a drink for about two years,” Reyez shares during her conversation. This choice reflects a conscious effort to pursue healthier habits. “I don’t do it hella recreationally; I do it more so ritualistically, with intention,” she adds, referring to her use of mushrooms as a source of healing and peace.
Reyez's embrace of mushrooms has sparked conversations about their potential benefits and cultural significance. “You know some people think mushrooms are aliens,” she states, seamlessly combining humor and introspection, inviting others to explore this “YouTube wormhole” of ideas.
The Sonic Refuge: Music That Heals
Music has been a consistent refuge for Reyez throughout her life, and she delves into this sentiment with passion. “On a bad day, I’m seeking out refuge sonically,” she articulates, revealing her affinity for artists like Bob Marley, whose timeless tracks provide solace in turbulent times. Marley's “Redemption Song,” is particularly cherished for its poignant messages of freedom and resilience.
Reyez points out that not all music that heals is easily digestible, likening the experience to eating spinach—nutritious but not always pleasant. Her admiration for Lauryn Hill's The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill encapsulates this idea. “That was spinach for your soul that was so good, but it was delivered in a way that tasted like steak,” she quips, elevating Hill's work to a masterpiece that delivers vital lessons about love and self-worth in an accessible manner.
Culinary Connections: Honoring Her Roots
Hailing from Toronto, Reyez's heritage greatly influences her identity and creativity. During the interview, she passionately recommends poutine, a quintessential Canadian comfort food, describing it as a hot and cheesy delight to be savored immediately. “If you’re not eating it hot enough to get a solid pull of cheese, you’re doing it wrong!” she exclaims, showcasing her love for the dish and the culinary culture of her hometown.
Yet, one of her fondest foods cannot be found in any restaurant—it’s her mother’s empanadas. “The secret to the best empanadas is having my mom make it,” she expresses warmly, revealing the personal connections that underscore her love of food and family.
Celebrating Toronto's Music Scene
Reyez's conversation also touches on her admiration for fellow Toronto artist Drake. “I love that guy, man. The city loves that man. The country loves that man,” she expresses, praising Drake for his substantial impact on the local and national music scene. This camaraderie signifies a broader story of artistic collaboration and community that defines Toronto’s evolving cultural landscape. Drake’s influence can be observed not just in the charts but also in the way he has transformed the global perception of Canadian music.
The Future of Jessie Reyez: Intentional Living and Artistic Growth
As Reyez moves forward, she embodies the concept of living intentionally. Her decision to embrace sobriety and introduce more meaningful experiences into her life challenges the status quo in an industry often glamorized for its party culture. Her focus on healing, both through music and personal choices, sets a powerful example for her fans, showing that success is not solely defined by fame but rather by the depth of one’s experiences and relationships.
Reyez's story is a reminder of the transformative power of music, love, and cultural roots. Whether she’s reflecting on her emotional connections in her newest album, savoring homemade empanadas, or advocating for a more thoughtful approach to life, Jessie Reyez invites us all to embrace our truths unapologetically.
FAQ
What is Jessie Reyez's latest album about?
Jessie Reyez's latest album, Pain in Memories, explores themes of personal growth, heartbreak, and the journey toward self-acceptance.
Why does Jessie Reyez prefer mushrooms over alcohol?
Reyez has chosen to embrace sobriety from alcohol for about two years. She uses mushrooms ritualistically and with intention, viewing them as a source of healing and personal exploration.
What does Jessie Reyez think about the influence of music?
Reyez believes in the power of music as a refuge during difficult times, often seeking solace in the works of artists like Bob Marley and Lauryn Hill.
What culinary delights does Jessie Reyez recommend?
Reyez suggests trying poutine, emphasizing the need to enjoy it while hot, and she adores her mother’s empanadas, which hold a special nostalgic significance for her.
How does Jessie Reyez feel about fellow artist Drake?
Jessie Reyez expresses deep admiration for Drake, highlighting his contributions to the success and recognition of Toronto's music scene.
As Jessie Reyez continues to evolve, her commitment to authenticity and connection with her roots serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that the journey toward self-discovery is as important as the destination. Her message resonates across demographics, reminding us all to embrace love unapologetically, pursue what nourishes our souls, and celebrate our heritage through art and community.
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