Prayer can be an intimate moment, or part of a gathering. In her new song “Dear Jesus”, singer/songwriter Raquel Kiaraa balances out her inner most thoughts and her fears to the forefront. In sharing her words, her music blends together a personal touch to the greater community. “Dear Jesus” is a moving pop track with stirring piano stretches and long-lasting vocals. Kiaraa is a gentle force, a beam of light in a music world focused on staying in the shadows’ darkness.
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While other songs might drown in sadness, or become engulfed in the grayness of a piano’s tone, Kiaraa accepts the situation and sings as if she were singing with her head up and her arms open. This overall feeling of acceptance conveys to the listener that she’s open minded, and as such, they should be too. “Dear Jesus” has moments where it could evolve to be something like the Jim Brickman-penned “Never Alone” (a hit for Lady A), and yet tender, very personal moments that it might fall into the arena of Adele’s “Someone Like You”. Kiaraa’s voice has a way of arresting the listener, stopping them in their tracks.
This song feels very personal, yes, but in many ways, she’s the voice of many. The backing music, a splendid concoction of piano and subdued percussion, is definitely something to boast. “Dear Jesus” has moments when the atmosphere seems to be blues skies and not a cloud in sight. The canvas the song paints is far-reaching and lingers for hours. It’s cozy and feels like it’s found a way to settle the restless soul. Kiaraa creates a solemn, sobering ecosystem that is fed by the bright piano, the airy tones of synth mixed with drums. I found her to be completely impressive, considering she’s newer to the music business. I was astounded to discover from her official biography that she’s only been performing (as well as writing her own music) for a few short years.
APPLE MUSIC: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/raquel-kiaraa/1538913910?ign-gact=3&ls=1
Is this a religious song? Yes. But in many ways, it is strictly invisible to organized religion. This image of Jesus is put upon us in society, but in “Dear Jesus” I think it takes on something different. This song is truly for anyone – and I think that’s all of us – that is reeling in the pressures. We’re often faced with crossroads in life’s decisions. This song took me to that fork in the road and guided me in a way that felt genuine. In a surreal way, almost, Kiaraa has made herself a medium or conduit to what we’re all facing in these troubled times. And the lesson learned is that it isn’t as troubled and scary as we might think. Someone up above has our back. If you don’t practice religion, then have faith in knowing that music brings us together. “Dear Jesus” is a triumphant example of the power of music, and the impact of just one voice.
Jamie Morse