By: Joshua Marks
Taydem Shoesmith, the chart-topping artist, unveiled her latest single, “This, That,” on November 5th, presenting an evocative jazz tune, a departure from her earlier musical explorations. Authored by Shoesmith herself, “This, That” is a contemplative song, attesting to the significance of looking beyond superficial characteristics when forming first impressions.
Taydem’s affection for music developed during her high school years, finding solace in crafting melodies and lyrics. Deriving musical influences from renowned artists like Michael Jackson, Rascal Flatts, and Billie Holiday, her repertoire spans genres – from singer-songwriter and pop to alternative. In January, her single “Are You Clapping?” resonated with music lovers worldwide, garnering over 89K streams on Spotify and securing a position in the UK iTunes Top 5.
Alongside music, Shoesmith has been pursuing her acting interests, making her debut in 2020, and since then, she has held lead roles in several films. Adding another dimension to her skills, she has penned music for films, including a theme song for a short series.
Shoesmith’s moment of inspiration for “This, That” came while she was driving. At its core, the song is her acknowledgment of her propensity to judge others based on first impressions and her resolve to break this pattern. As she aptly says, “I want to stop putting people in a box, and I want to stop putting myself in a box as well. I think that kind of restricted thinking will keep me from growing and learning new things.”
When a chance to create a 1920s “gender swap” inspired silent film sprung up from a conversation with an actor and director friend, Shoesmith quickly seized the opportunity to use “This, That” as the theme song for the said film.
The single represents Shoesmith’s first venture into the world of jazz. The song, exquisitely produced by Caleb Ostermann at ForteStudios, is marked by its captivating melody and introspective lyrics, showcasing Shoesmith’s adaptability as an artist.
Aural audiences can savor “This, That” on all major streaming platforms, released under MTS Records. To stay updated with her future endeavors, follow Taydem Shoesmith on Instagram (@tshoe23) and Facebook (@taydemshoesmith), and subscribe to her YouTube channel.
Hailing from Iowa, traditionally known for its expansive cornfields and agriculture, Taydem Shoesmith is steadily emerging as a notable name in the jazz scene. Her latest single, “This, That,” is a testament to her palpable talent and her potential to reshape the conventional jazz landscape with her distinct fusion of styles.
From the dexterous opening bars to Shoesmith’s mellifluous demure entrance, “This, That” invites listeners into her intricate and vibrant musical world. The flawless production, courtesy of Caleb Ostermann, ensures an immersive experience with every precisely placed note and instrument.
Shoesmith’s voice, the soul of “This, That,” resonates with an emotive depth that enchants listeners. Her vocal prowess, coupled with the tantalizing exploration of each note, perfectly sets an enrapturing ambiance befitting the jazz genre.
With “This, That,” Shoesmith has successfully navigated the genre shift from the peppy, electronic beats of “Are You Clapping?” to a more sultry and sophisticated sound. Her ability to traverse multifarious music styles with ease has managed to captivate thousands of listeners, further establishing her as an emerging talent in the music industry.
In short, Taydem Shoesmith’s “This, That” is a composed declaration of her unique place in the jazz scene, a striking blend of her enticing vocals and sensational instrumentation. She embraces the jazz tradition while threading a fresh, modern narrative, defying the boundaries of conventional thinking. Through her artistry, Shoesmith shows that, in a world where music is continuously evolving, blending, and transitioning, there’s still room for jazz to be captivating, fresh, and modern.
