Building on the foundation of his debut album, Metamorphosis, J.R. now presents the antithesis of an infamous heavy metal album of similar moniker, Death By Stereo, with Life By Stereo—signifying God’s use of music as a medium to communicate LIFE rather than DEATH. Life By Stereo centers on the human existence, its trials and the healing balm of the gospel message. Like the book of Psalms, J.R.’s pen scopes the lamentations, woes and triumphs of the whole person. Transcending generation and genre, the album ministers in a style all its own—fusing eclectic urban gospel, contemporary R&B, Rock and Pop styles in a way pioneered by tobyMac.
J.R. has himself undergone a transformation and he sings about it with a soul-stirring grit and maturity that is revealed in the artistry of this album’s jam-packed array of percussive beats and explosive lyrical delivery. The Outkast-meets—Gwen Stefani single “Not a Slave” hones in on the perils of a past life ruled by sin contrasted with a present life ruled by the Holy Spirit.
Intro
J.R. Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
This is my heart and soul the metamorphosis take a walk with me so you can see just how he can change you (ah, huh)x3
The opening lyrics of J.R.'s song "Intro" invite the listener to join him on a journey of transformation. He speaks of his "heart and soul" and the metamorphosis that is taking place within him. Through the repetition of the phrase "take a walk with me," J.R. invites the listener to come alongside him and witness the changes that are occurring. The use of the pronoun "he" in the second line leaves room for interpretation- it could refer to a spiritual force, a personal mentor or guide, or even simply the power of personal growth.
The concept of metamorphosis, or transformation, is a powerful one that is relevant to people from all walks of life. Whether J.R. is referring to a religious conversion, a personal crisis, or simply a desire for self-improvement, the listener can relate to the idea of going through a period of change. The use of the verb "changing" rather than "changed" also suggests that this transformation is ongoing- J.R. is still in the midst of it, and the listener may still have the opportunity to join him.
Overall, the opening lyrics of "Intro" are a powerful invitation to join J.R. on a journey of personal growth and transformation. Through his music, he encourages the listener to reflect on their own life and consider the changes that they may need to make in order to reach their full potential.
Line by Line Meaning
This is my heart and soul
This is my innermost being, my true self
the metamorphosis
The process of transformation, of becoming something new
take a walk with me
Come along on this journey with me
so you can see
I want you to witness and understand
just how he's changing me
I am being transformed by a higher power or force
(ah, huh)x3
An expression of affirmation, agreement, and understanding
Contributed by Katherine B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.