(May 8, 2025) I recently read an article from a writer who claimed there is a dearth of music with meaningful lyrics released these days. That might be the case for many mainstream artists, be indie artists, particularly those working in the soul and R&B genres, are reaching deeply into the human experience as they create their music.
These artists consistently release works that address the state of the world or the human condition. These tunes could be songs of protest, or in the case of “Unbreakable” by HJ Soul, music that speaks to the enduring resilience of the human spirit
The song is deeply influenced by neo-soul as well as gospel. The gospel influence can be heard in the organ riffs, as well as the call and response between HJ Soul and his harmonic backing vocalists. The neo-soul comes through in the introspective and inspirational message “Unbreakable” brings forth.
“Unbreakable” tells a deeply personal yet universal story of persevering through difficult times and not becoming discouraged by the curveballs and disappointments that life throws at you. Or as HJ Soul says: “This song has a movie feel to it. It is a song that inspires individuals to make it through the most challenging times taking you through a journey of introspection of a soul with an unbreakable spirit.”
HJ Soul might not be yelling “fight the power” on “Unbreakable,” but a song reminding people that they have the stuff to meet and overcome adversity, is a song crafted for the times we face. Check it out here.
By Howard Dukes
