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Hanna Kowal

Review: "SIRIUS" - Jamie Michael


SIRIUS by Jamie Michael Cover Art

"SIRIUS", Jamie Michael's new debut single, is an energizing message of self-love. The first verse shows a realization: that the narrator deserves to be treated the way they treat others. The verse ends with a powerful message, saying "wanted to keep the peace, but I got this war in me". This is a call to action as the speaker follows a journey to self-actualization, realizing sometimes it's better to be loud about who you are and what you need. The pre-chorus demonstrates the clarity that comes when people who love you leave your life. The song doesn't touch on why these people leave, because it truly isn't about anyone but the speaker.


This is their story, and the chorus puts the spotlight on their power with the image of light and fire as the embodiment of themself.  The lyrics describe the speaker as "shining bright like Sirius." This comparison to a star, one that has been recognized since near the beginning of documented history, truly represents the speaker as timeless and epic. "SIRIUS" also emphasizes the idea that sometimes the best thing to do for yourself is be alone with words like, "with the space between us, I'm finally where I'm meant to be." A sense of resolution comes from the bridge, as the lyrics make it clear that the speaker will forever fight for herself.



Bright electronic music opens the song with bouncy note patterns. These upbeat, shining sounds cut out as they are replaced by a deeper, ethereal sequence to compliment Jamie's vocals as they begin. The verses are recited slowly, like each word is glowing. Her voice is feminine and whole, giving a fluidity to the increasingly intricate electronic notes. The instrumentals sound almost like a musical spaceship. Percussion hypes up the tune, in an energizing drum fill of different beats, until the chorus comes in with a grounding pulse beat. Also through the chorus, the speed picks up and the vocals get higher, adding even more dimension to the song. Background vocals repeat the word "Sirius" at the end of the chorus, adding a floaty and ethereal layer to the word. Transitioning into the next verse involves a whooshing sound and bubbly scales, adding to the otherworldly mood. The bridge plays around with instrumentals, starting with minimal percussion, and giving a focus to the independence of the lyrics, as the instrumentals build, bringing the power and energy from the words to life. The song ends with layered vocals and instrumentals, including Jamie belting the final lyrics "blinding from afar". The boldness of the climbing notes in the very last word profoundly ends the song.


Jamie Michael is a Montreal-based pop singer who draws on musical theatre and R&B to create her art. Her style is influenced by many pop artists including Ariana Grande and Bruno Mars. She aspires to bring self-love to listeners, and "SIRIUS" is a prime display of that goal brought to life. Her musical influences came early, having grown up in a Filipino household, and singing at family events. Jamie has been playing piano since she was 5, and spent her youth singing in choirs. In 2020, she turned to music as a creative outlet to cope with her mother's passing, and has since fully embraced songwriting. She majored in Professional Music at Berklee College of Music, and continues to work on her musical talents. With self-love-driven motivation and an uplifting sound, Jamie’s music is bound to fill listeners' hearts.


Written By Hanna Kowal


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