DECODING JAZ KARIS' AND MAHALIA'S
"NICE GIRLS"
Words: Lolwetu Pakati
Images: Sourced
Ready to get real about “Nice Girls”? In the haunting melody of ‘Nice Girls,’ Jaz Karis and Mahalia embark on a journey through the complexities of post-breakup introspection. Here, vulnerability takes center stage as they explore the aftermath of romantic dissolution with raw, unfiltered honesty. Amidst the poignant chorus, Jaz’s voice resonates with a bittersweet declaration: ‘nice girls they lose, I can’t get caught up falling for you.’
In a candid exchange with Jaz Karis, we unpacked the heart of “Nice Girls,” uncovering the raw emotions and personal experiences that inspired this soul-stirring melody. With heartfelt honesty, Jaz shared the intimate stories behind the lyrics, offering a glimpse into the depths of her creative process.
Could you share the inspiration behind your latest single, “Nice Girls”?
Absolutely. “Nice Girls” is deeply personal to me. It stemmed from observing and experiencing the dynamic where women often find themselves in relationships where they feel powerless or taken advantage of. It’s a theme I’ve seen and heard about from many women around me, and I wanted to address it in my music. The song delves into the complexities of being perceived as the “nice girl” who often ends up feeling undervalued or discarded in relationships. It’s a journey through frustration, empowerment, and self-realisation.
Did the song stem from a specific incident or was it a culmination of past experiences?
It’s a bit of both, actually. When I wrote “Nice Girls,” I wasn’t directly responding to a recent event or relationship. Instead, it was a culmination of various experiences I’ve had and stories I’ve heard from friends and peers. However, what’s fascinating is that shortly after I finished the song and Mahalia joined in, I found myself in a situation that mirrored the themes of the song almost eerily. It was like life imitating art, which added another layer of depth to the song for me.
How did the collaboration with Mahalia come about?
Collaborating with Mahalia was a dream come true. I’ve been a fan of her work for a long time, and we’ve developed a friendship over the years. When I was working on “Nice Girls,” I knew I wanted another female perspective on the track, someone who could understand and amplify the message I was trying to convey. Mahalia was the perfect fit. I reached out to her, shared the song, and she immediately resonated with it. Working with her was not only artistically fulfilling but also incredibly empowering as we shared our experiences and perspectives.
What was the synergy like between you two while working on the song?
The synergy between Mahalia and me was truly magical. From the moment we started discussing the song to recording our parts, everything flowed effortlessly. We were on the same wavelength creatively, which made the collaboration seamless. Mahalia brought her unique style and energy to the track, enhancing its depth and emotional resonance. It felt like a genuine artistic exchange where we both contributed to something greater than ourselves.
What do you hope listeners take away from “Nice Girls”?
My biggest hope for “Nice Girls” is that it resonates with listeners on a personal level and sparks meaningful conversations about relationships and self-worth. I want people, especially women, to feel seen and heard when they listen to the song—to know that they’re not alone in their experiences and that their feelings are valid. Ultimately, I hope “Nice Girls” empowers listeners to prioritise their own happiness and well-being in their relationships and lives.
Do you believe “nice girls” always lose in relationships?
It’s a complex question with no straightforward answer. On one hand, being kind, compassionate, and understanding are essential qualities in any healthy relationship. However, there’s a fine line between being nice and being taken advantage of or manipulated. In my opinion, “nice girls” don’t always lose, but they may need to set boundaries and advocate for themselves to ensure their needs are met and their voices are heard in relationships.
What relationship advice would you give to young women facing similar challenges?
My advice to young women navigating challenging relationships is to prioritise self-love and self-respect above all else. It’s essential to know your worth and to recognise when a relationship is no longer serving you positively. Take the time to reflect on your feelings, needs, and boundaries, and don’t hesitate to communicate them openly and honestly with your partner. Remember that you deserve to be treated with kindness, understanding, and respect, and don’t settle for anything less.
What’s next for you after “Nice Girls”?
I’m incredibly excited about what the future holds for my music. I have several projects in the works, including new singles and potentially an album down the line. Each project is an opportunity for me to explore different themes, sounds, and collaborations, and I can’t wait to share them with my fans. I’m also continuing to evolve as an artist, honing my craft, and pushing myself creatively to new heights. Stay tuned for more music and exciting announcements in the coming months!