Androgynous and non-binary Black artist Jourdan Frost steps boldly into Fall 2025 with the release of their new single, “Can We Pretend,” a mid-tempo pop ballad that blends the lush sonics of Top 40 pop with the sweeping nostalgia of classic rock. Releasing October 24 via So Fierce Music, the track is a bittersweet ode to longing, love, and the universal desire to feel part of a fairytale romance—even if only for a moment.
Frost describes the single as a reflection on the love stories unfolding all around her. “Since last August, so many of my friends and family members have entered new relationships, gotten engaged, or gotten married. I started writing from the perspective of being on the outside, wishing I were on the inside. That’s how ‘Can We Pretend’ was born,” she explains. With its breathy, ethereal vocal delivery, the song creates an atmosphere that feels both wistful and enchanting. “It’s like a sad reminiscent of a fairytale love song,” Frost says. “It almost feels like you’re mourning the perfect relationship or wishing you had it.”
That sense of longing is paired with Frost’s genre-bending sound, which merges modern pop melodies with a touch of classic rock’s emotional depth. “I couldn’t believe it was me singing when I heard the final cut,” Frost laughs. “It felt like I was transported into the story I was writing.” This daring spirit defines their artistry. Frost thrives on adaptability and curiosity, always pushing outside of their comfort zone to experiment with new sounds and approaches. As an artist, she describes herself as creative, ambitious, and astute, while as a performer, they embodies fearlessness, charisma, and allure. “Performing is where I feel most alive,” Frost says.
Love, self-worth, and identity are central themes in Frost’s work. She is drawn to exploring the highs and lows of human connection, from joy and passion to loss and pain. Even their uptempo records are rooted in emotion, designed to move people both physically and spiritually. “I love the energy that happens when a crowd dances together,” she says. “It’s a beautiful release.”
Although Frost grew up singing in church, they didn’t initially see music as their calling. “Honestly, I had no rhythm at all,” she recalls. “I thought I’d be an actor before anything. I mimicked people, animals, and family members. I loved performing, but I didn’t think my voice was special enough.” That changed after a high school pageant performance revealed their vocal power and eventually led to nights performing in Jacksonville’s LGBT clubs. Once DJs and promoters realized Frost could sing, opportunities began to unfold.
In 2024, Frost signed with Velvet Code’s So Fierce Music label, a partnership that has encouraged them to be more vulnerable and authentic. “Velvet has pushed me to be honest in my music. We’re discovering my sweet spot: a blend of 80s pop, disco, ballads, and up-tempo EDM,” Frost shares.
The recording of “Can We Pretend” came with its own memorable challenges, including a late-night Los Angeles studio session where Frost nearly gave up. “It was past midnight, my voice wasn’t at its best, and I was ready to call it quits. Then the engineer brought me the hottest cup of tea I’ve ever had! It literally burned my mouth, but it worked. We finished around 4 a.m., and I had to be at work by 7 a.m. the next day. It was wild, but worth it.”
Their influences reflect a deep respect for both iconic legends and contemporary hitmakers. Frost studied the showmanship and artistry of Tina Turner, Madonna, Donna Summer, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Diana Ross, while also drawing inspiration from today’s stars like Beyoncé, Dua Lipa, Lizzo, Tate McRae, and The Weeknd. The result is a sound that bridges eras, merging timeless influences with fresh perspective.
At its heart, “Can We Pretend” carries a message everyone can relate to. It reminds listeners that hopeless romance still has a place in a modern world that often feels jaded. “It’s a song for anyone who’s ever longed for love, even if it felt out of reach,” Frost says. “I hope people hear it and feel less alone in that longing.”
“Can We Pretend” is now available on all major streaming platforms.
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