Having spent one’s entire life in front of an audience, it can be trying to keep one’s composure amidst the chaos. Luckily, Malay has found the balance between the stage and self – to demand respect and never settle on one’s integrity. Think Janet Jackson, one of Malay's favorites, circa “That's the Way Love Goes” - confident, sexy, and while we're at it, thoroughly in control. "Janet is a female artist who has gotten the message out that you can be a commanding woman without losing your femininity and sexuality," Malay says. You can have both.
That empowering message is boldly conveyed on the songs Malay is currently recording for her album. For example, the anthemic song, "King," is a potent response to male bravado. Check this for the opening verse to “King”: “How strange your life would be / If you were on your knees / If I was your lord and you called me Majesty / Next, if I took off all your clothes / would you feel just like a ho? / Standing oh so naked there in front of me.” Then, Malay delivers the defiant kiss-off: “Repeat after me: I am king / Kiss my ring!”
On another, the flirty “Topsy-Turvy,” Malay warns her male listeners that girls can be moody but, "this is how we are, so take it or leave it," she says. She switches gears on "The Whole 9," proving her versatility with a love-struck ballad that encourages girls to hold out for a guy who treats her right. Then there's the mesmerizing, naughty club track "Hypnotiq," which Malay describes as a guilty pleasure. "Girls want to be taken seriously," she says, "but they also want a night out where they can have fun and get crazy."
Malay, who works a playfully provocative blend of sultry R&B vocal stylings, hip-hop edginess, and indelible pop smarts, delivers a club-friendly single "Gimme" featuring Lil Scrappy. "Gimme," co-written with Malay and Jonathan "JR" Rotem (Rihanna, 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg), blends classic R&B pop styles with the fresh beats and sounds from one of today's hottest young producing talents. She also brought on Mateo Laboriel (Jamie Foxx), “Jay E” Epperson (Nelly), and Stiles of Dangerous, LLC (50 Cent) to round out the sound. "Today’s music appreciates the songs of yesterday but incorporates a modern day flavor. I love that about music right now," Malay insists. For old school inspiration, Malay collaborated with legendary hit-makers Bruce Roberts and Andy Goldmark -- who have written and produced for such mega artists as Donna Summer, Whitney Houston, The Pointer Sisters, Patti LaBelle, Aretha Franklin and Ray Charles.
For Malay, who helped co-write four of the current tracks, it has been a whirlwind of writing and recording. Adding more heat to the debut, the release features guest appearances by such fresh new talents as Trey Songz, and East Coast rapper Gravy. One of her main focuses now is rehearsing for her live show with choreographer Mikey Minden (Pussycat Dolls). "I think people will get what I do when they see me perform," says Malay of her live show. "It's a really good balance of smooth, urban hip-hop choreography and seductive, authoritative moves that suit me really well. I want people to get that strong female message from me, but I also want them to have fun with my music." Get ready for Jessi Malay, coming soon.
Here I Am
Jessi Malay Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Ever since I took my first step and said my first hello (hello)
I've been dancing, I've been singing
I've been hoping, I've been dreaming, I've been praying
For a chance to show (show the world)
Show the world
That I can be
Just like the girls on T. V.
Here I am, here I am, here I am
Isn't it crazy, Isn't it wild
Here I am, here I am, here I am
Isn't it crazy, Now isn't it crazy
Here I am
Like a little voice inside my heart
Talking from the very start
Telling me which way to go
Always try, don't give up, if you want it never stop, take your time
If you want to show (show the world)
Show the world
That you can be
Just like the girls on T. V.
Here I am, here I am, here I am
Isn't it crazy, Isn't it wild
Here I am, here I am
Isn't it crazy, Now isn't it crazy
Here I am
Feel the fire in me
Isn't it a little insaine
Here I am, here I am, here I am
Here I am, here I am
Here I am, here I am
Isn't it crazy
Here I am, here I am, here I am
Isn't it crazy, Isn't it wild
Here I am, here I am, here I am
Isn't it crazy, now isn't it crazy
Here I am, here I am
The lyrics of Jessi Malay's "Here I Am" convey the story of a young girl who yearns to express herself through art, music, and dance. From a very young age, she has been singing, dancing, and dreaming of a chance to showcase her talent to the world. She has listened to the little voice inside her heart that has always encouraged her to follow her dreams, never give up, and always take her time.
The song speaks about the girl's struggles and the challenges she has faced and overcome as she has pursued her dreams. The lyrics highlight her passion, determination, and perseverance in the face of setbacks and obstacles, reminding the listener that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
In the chorus, the girl revels in the realization that she has finally made it, that she has pursued her dreams and succeeded in showing her talent to the world. The repetition of the phrase "Here I am" reinforces her sense of achievement and pride in her accomplishments.
Overall, Jessi Malay's "Here I Am" is an inspirational and uplifting song that encourages listeners to pursue their dreams, follow their passion, and always believe in themselves.
Line by Line Meaning
Ever since I was a little girl
From a very young age, I have had aspirations and dreams.
Ever since I took my first step and said my first hello (hello)
From the very moment I was able to speak and walk, I knew I wanted to make a mark on the world.
I've been dancing, I've been singing
Throughout my life, I have honed my talents in music and performance arts.
I've been hoping, I've been dreaming, I've been praying
I have always had a deep-rooted desire to achieve my goals and make my dreams a reality.
For a chance to show (show the world)
I have always wanted the opportunity to showcase my talents to the world.
Show the world
I want to prove to people that I am capable of greatness.
That I can be
I want to prove that I have what it takes to succeed in the music industry.
Just like the girls on T. V.
I strive to be just as successful and inspiring as the music artists I see on TV.
Here I am, here I am, here I am
I am proud to announce that I have made it this far and I am ready to take on all challenges that come my way.
Isn't it crazy, Isn't it wild
It is quite incredible and almost unbelievable to think that I have come this far from where I started.
Now isn't it crazy
It feels surreal, but I am grateful for where I am now.
Like a little voice inside my heart
I have always had an internal drive and passion to pursue my dreams.
Talking from the very start
This passion has always been a part of me, from the very beginning of my life.
Telling me which way to go
This passion has been guiding me towards my goals and showing me the right path to follow.
Always try, don't give up, if you want it never stop, take your time
I have worked tirelessly and persevered through many obstacles to get to where I am today.
Feel the fire in me
I have an intense desire and drive to succeed, which fuels my passion for music.
Isn't it a little insaine
My dedication and hard work towards achieving my dreams may seem crazy to some, but it is what I love to do.
Contributed by Reagan O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.