Jade Ritter's new single "Beautiful" is a hug, a reiteration, and a shining provocation of self-love. Ritter's voice radiates a warmth and sincerity that can stop you short. It's the sound of being listened to and instantly feeling understood.
"Beautiful" is Jade's deeply personal love letter to their former young queer self, but it's also something of a note to all of us, because we all need reminding that whoever that complete version of ourselves might be, they're worthy, they are valid and free and deserve to dance horizontally in flashing light. It's a significant reduction back down to just returning to your first love, your artist's heart, Ritter has said of the album, and that dedication is felt in every phrase. It swells with an undeniable truth, no matter who you are, the universe loves you exactly as your birthright, beautiful.
Jade Ritter has held a flame for the arts for as long as they can remember. Their backgrounds in singing, dance, and theater lend a performance style that feels both classic and fresh, paying homage to legends like Judy Garland while channelling the fearless artistry of Lady Gaga. Fused with "Beautiful," Ritter's combination takes the form of a sound that is uniquely their own, authentic, unapologetic, and full of emotional clarity. What makes this single so compelling is the humanity of it. It's not solely an anthem for the queer community, it's a reminder of worthiness that everyone in the universe can benefit from. In a world that can be quick to judge and divide, Ritter brings us a piece of music that heals and uplifts its listeners.
"Beautiful" isn't just something listened to, it's something felt. And in the act of listening, we're reminded of our own radiance, our own right to take up space, to love and be loved. Jade Ritter has given us a gift, a song that says what so many wish to hear, You are beautiful, the way you are.