Lexi Jayde Moves Forward in “what’s the matter with you”

Photo: Caity Krone

From topping charts with the ultimate breakup anthem “hate to be you” to releasing her debut EP closer to closure to being chosen as the cover star of our ‘School’s Out’ zine, Lexi Jayde has had one hell of a year—and it’s not over yet. This week, the 20-year-old singer-songwriter drops her first single since her standout EP, “what’s the matter with you.”

While closer to closure documented Jayde’s personal journey of heartbreak to healing, “what’s the matter with you” focuses on the aftermath of it all, as the rising star speaks openly and truthfully as ever. As much as Jayde wants to continue moving forward, she can’t help but feel the presence of the lingering ghosts of her past. Written in collaboration with FINNEAS, Jayde confronts the conflicting feelings that come with seeing someone new but being haunted by someone old. This is best captured in the chorus, where Jayde sings, “What’s the matter with you / You’re such a gentlemen / I told you I don’t have the time to fall in love again.”

Instrumentally, “what’s the matter with you” stays true to Jayde’s classic sound, setting an honest scene for its storytelling with subdued, melancholic pop instrumentals that gradually intensify with her rising vocals. One of my favorite things about Jayde is her passion; she sings with a raw, authentic emotion that you can feel in each and every lyric. Somehow, it almost feels as if you are floating through a distant memory.

Along with the release of “what’s the matter with you” is its official music video. Directed by Connor Brashier, we watch Jayde observe herself—yes, her own self—falling in love with someone new, until, ultimately, she decides to come back to herself as an act of protection. Shot with a nostalgic, film-like texture, the video perfectly captures the softness of the track while bringing the push-and-pull dynamic of Jayde and her inner psyche to life.

Throughout October and November, Jayde will be embarking on her ‘This is Closure’ tour across North America.

Watch the “what’s the matter with you” video below: