Jordan Cordel is making waves in the R&B scene, setting the stage for a monumental year with the upcoming release of his debut album, You Made Me This Way. With a passion rooted in gospel, influenced by R&B legends, and refined through years of dedication, Jordan’s journey is one of resilience, artistry, and self-discovery. As an independent artist, he has crafted a body of work that reflects the highs and lows of love, heartbreak, and personal growth.
In this exclusive feature, we dive deep into his inspirations, creative process, challenges, and what the future holds for this rising star.
The Journey to “You Made Me This Way”
A Two-Part Album Born from Personal Experience
Jordan Cordel has been working on You Made Me This Way since 2022, creating over 60 songs before deciding to release a two-part album totaling 20 tracks. This deeply personal project is inspired by his love life throughout his 20s, marked by heartbreak and betrayal.
“This album reflects how my experiences shaped me into someone I never expected to become,” he shares.
Fans can expect a raw and emotional journey that explores the impact of pain and healing.
Inside Jordan Cordel’s Creative Process
From Life to Lyrics: Writing and Producing Authentic Music
Jordan’s music is deeply personal, with most of his songs stemming from real-life experiences. Some were written long before production began, while others were inspired in the moment by melodies or beats that sparked his creativity.
His close-knit production team includes Jamaal Anderson, multi-platinum producer Zaytoven, Lee Lipsey (LP$Y), and Jay2kayy, all of whom played a crucial role in bringing his vision to life.
Musical Influences That Shaped His Sound
From Gospel to R&B Greats
Growing up in Port Arthur, Texas, Jordan was surrounded by music. His parents introduced him to legendary artists like Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, and Michael Jackson, whose influence set a foundation for excellence.
Modern icons like Chris Brown, Beyoncé, Usher, Lucky Daye, Brandy, Bruno Mars, and Mariah Carey have further shaped his sound.
“These artists helped me expand my songwriting, master my falsetto, and taught me to take risks in my music,” he explains.
Challenges and Triumphs as an Independent Artist
Overcoming Industry Obstacles
Jordan’s journey hasn’t been without its struggles. He’s faced unsupportive people, bad record deals, broken promises, and the loss of friendships due to his dedication to music.
However, remaining independent has allowed him to maintain creative control. Through self-releases, music videos, and performances, he continues to prove that his voice and story deserve to be heard.
“I’ve accomplished all of this on my own, and I refuse to wait for someone to give me an opportunity—I create them myself,” he states proudly.
Career Highlights and Memorable Moments
Collaborations with Industry Giants
One of the most defining moments of Jordan’s career was working with legendary producer Zaytoven. Their connection began in 2022 at a Miami music competition, leading to several collaborations, two of which will be featured on his debut album.
In 2024, he attended Zaytoven’s writing camp, where he worked with multi-platinum producer D Billy, eventually collaborating with artist Royalty Reina on No Pressure—his most streamed song to date.
Performing on National Television
Jordan has also gained recognition for his live performances. In 2024, he was honored to sing the National Anthem for Texas Athletics, broadcasted on ESPN—a moment that solidified his growing presence in the music industry.
And just recently, in 2025, Jordan had another major milestone, performing for Texas Woman’s Basketball on SEC Network. This latest achievement further showcases his rising profile and ability to captivate audiences on national platforms.
The Motivation Behind His Music
Passion Over Pressure
For Jordan, music isn’t just a career—it’s his purpose.
“Music is my way of expressing myself, connecting with others, and finding meaning in life,” he says.
While transitioning from a hobby to a profession introduced new pressures, he has refocused on creating music out of love rather than chasing industry metrics.
The Themes Behind You Made Me This Way
A Story of Pain, Reflection, and Healing
Jordan’s debut album isn’t just about heartbreak—it’s about the consequences of letting pain dictate decisions.
“When I started writing these songs, I was in the middle of the situation. But as I healed, I realized how toxic I had become,” he reflects.
His journey through therapy and self-awareness has allowed him to create music that encourages listeners to face their trauma rather than mask it with temporary distractions.
What’s Next for Jordan Cordel?
Upcoming Releases and Collaborations
Fans won’t have to wait long to hear Jordan’s new music. You Made Me This Way – Part 1 is set to release this spring, with its lead single dropping in the coming weeks. Part 2 will follow later in the fall, completing his most cohesive and personal project to date.
Jordan confidently claims, “I will be releasing one of the best R&B albums of 2025.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Jordan Cordel’s debut album releasing?
Jordan’s album, You Made Me This Way – Part 1, is set to release this spring, with Part 2 following in the fall of 2025.
2. What inspired You Made Me This Way?
The album is inspired by Jordan’s love life in his 20s, filled with heartbreak, betrayal, and self-discovery.
3. Who are some producers and artists Jordan Cordel has worked with?
Jordan has collaborated with Zaytoven, Jamaal Anderson, Lee Lipsey (LP$Y), Jay2kayy, and D Billy. He also worked with Royalty Reina on the song No Pressure.
4. How did Jordan Cordel get started in music?
He began singing in church at age 8 and later honed his skills through talent shows, UIL solo competitions, and forming a band in college.
5. What challenges has Jordan faced as an independent artist?
Jordan has encountered unsupportive individuals, bad contract offers, and industry setbacks, but he remains determined, creating his own opportunities.
6. Where can I follow Jordan Cordel?
- Instagram: @jordancordel
- Twitter: @jordancordel
- YouTube: Jordan Cordel YouTube
- TikTok: @jordan_cordel
Conclusion
Jordan Cordel is more than just an emerging artist—he’s a force in the making. With a deep-rooted passion for music, a commitment to authenticity, and an impressive list of collaborations, his upcoming debut album is set to leave a lasting impact on R&B.
As he continues his journey, one thing is clear: Jordan Cordel is a name we’ll be hearing for years to come.
