JoJo released the new music for “Save My Soul” from her fall release, III (Tringle). The emotional music video is directed by one of JoJo’s closest friends, Zelda Williams, who had this to say about the project:
To say the ‘Save My Soul’ video means a lot to me would be an understatement of stupendous proportions. It’s not just that Jo and I have been wanting to collaborate for most of the 10 years we’ve been friends, though that’s certainly an important part of it… nor is it the terrifying fact that this was my first turn getting to direct, an honor and responsibility I’m still shocked the ‘grownups’ let me do…In the end, the thing I am most grateful for is the trust Jo had in me to help her tell a story I know has been percolating in her for a very, very long time.
The video pays tribute to the singer’s late father, Joel Levesque, and dropped earlier today, on what would have been his 61st birthday.
Both the song and the video focuses on addiction, which JoJo has witnessed first-hand.
The singer took to Instagram to premiere a clip of the video, along with a message that explains the visual’s focus:
“Save My Soul” is about addiction. Of all kinds. I wanted to convey the feeling of powerlessness I’ve felt in my life in an uncomplicated way and show a range of what it might look like for others who’ve been there. Working with one of my best friends, Zelda Williams (director of SMS), was a highlight of my 2015. We’d been talking about working together for like 10 years! Because of the content of the song and the way it touched us both, “Save My Soul” felt like the natural place for us to finally collaborate.
A group of us young, crazy, creatives drove out to the magical desert of Joshua Tree and got naked – most of us emotionally, and a few literally. It was a safe space to be vulnerable and free from judgment and the need to be/ look/ act “perfect”. Everyone who participated connected to the song and brought their truth to the table.
We filmed this video about a month before my father lost his decades long battle with addiction. His death honestly felt like it came out of nowhere…and yet I had been mourning him for years…if that makes any sense. I know all too well from seeing it around me that the fight is not easy. It’s every day. All consuming. I’m not mad at my dad. I love him and I’m sad. He is my greatest heartbreak. This song, which had always been personal to me, takes on even deeper meaning now. “I try to run but it hurts every time I try… Lord I try and I can’t say no.” Makes me think of the universal struggle of seeking victory over the feeling of powerlessness to a situation, a lover, a drug.
Losing my father at the end of last year and knowing the propensity for addiction of all kinds that runs deep in my blood from both sides makes it next-level important for me to LIVE – not just be alive, but THRIVE in his honor. I can do this. And so can you. If you’re struggling, believe the only way OUT is THROUGH. Keep going.
Love, Jo.
Check it out above.
