Philadelphia-based dream pop artist Johnny Fordyce has returned with a fresh single, Be Your Woman, marking his first release since his debut EP over a year ago. The track not only showcases Fordyce’s growth as a musician but also challenges societal norms surrounding love and relationships in an innovative and thought-provoking way.
Be Your Woman offers listeners a catchy, funky, and groovy blend of pop-rock and neo-soul, boasting instantly memorable lyrics, melodic hooks, and a jazzy saxophone solo. It’s the kind of track that invites you to move, yet it also invites introspection, as its lyrics dive deep into themes of personal freedom and emotional intelligence in relationships.
At its core, Be Your Woman is a reflection of Fordyce’s own journey as a man navigating the complexities of gender norms. Though he identifies as a cisgender man, Fordyce has never conformed to traditional ideas of masculinity. His new single offers a refreshing take on love and relationships by stepping away from the idea of “locking someone down” and instead promotes the importance of emotional intelligence and freedom.
In Fordyce’s own words: “I never wanted to be the kind of man who ‘locks someone down’ in a relationship. Women know what other women want emotionally and sexually, and I’ve always aspired to reach that higher level of emotional intelligence in my own relationships.” This open acknowledgment not only sets Be Your Woman apart from typical pop songs about love but also positions it as a piece that pushes back against toxic masculinity.
The song’s creative process reflects Fordyce’s organic approach to songwriting. He recalls that the melody and lyrics came to him before he even figured out the chords: “I had the first verse and chorus down before I even figured out the chords,” he shared. This natural flow continued into the studio, where Ty Ripley, the engineer at Little Brother Audio, helped refine the track. Ripley’s collaborative and experimental approach elevated Fordyce’s vision, resulting in a song that feels fresh yet timeless. “Ty has a remarkable ability to take the vibe from the original demo and elevate it. He really understood where I was going with this one and was always open to experimenting with new ideas,” says Fordyce.
Musically, Be Your Woman showcases Fordyce’s eclectic influences. While rooted in pop, the song incorporates neo-soul elements, such as jazz-infused guitar chords and a smooth saxophone solo that gives the track a retro, yet modern, feel. This blending of genres reflects Fordyce’s signature style, which draws from indie, psychedelic, lo-fi pop, bedroom pop, rock, and R&B. His ability to combine these elements seamlessly allows listeners to experience a sonic journey that is both immersive and emotionally resonant.
Fordyce has made a name for himself in the Philadelphia music scene, performing at several notable venues such as Kung Fu Necktie, PhilaMOCA, and a sold-out show at Silk City. His music has carved out a distinctive space in the local scene, blending dreamy soundscapes with heartfelt lyrics that appeal to a wide audience. His upcoming performance at MilkBoy on October 18th, where he will support Post Saga and Winston, is set to be another milestone in his live performance career, adding to his growing presence as a live act to watch.
In many ways, Be Your Woman marks a turning point for Johnny Fordyce. Not only does it represent a bold artistic statement, but it also challenges listeners to think differently about love, gender roles, and emotional connection. With its infectious groove and thought-provoking lyrics, Be Your Woman sets the stage for Fordyce’s continued evolution as an artist who isn’t afraid to defy expectations and push boundaries.
As Fordyce continues to grow his fanbase and develop his sound, it’s clear that Be Your Woman is more than just a single—it’s an anthem for those who value emotional intelligence, freedom, and the power of authentic connection in relationships. With this release, Johnny Fordyce proves he’s an artist with a message, and one whose musical journey is just getting started.
Connect with JOHNNY FORDYCE on
English