“Unchained” by Jesse Lynn Madera

Jesse Lynn Madera’s latest release “Unchained” is a haunting and beautiful rendition of Johnny Cash’s 1996 hit — Madera’s downbeat, somber country track showcases her impressive vocal range, as she sings of being unchained from the weight that has been holding her down. The accompanying lyric music video featuring imagery of flowers growing through cracked concrete only adds to the powerful emotions evoked by the song.

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Madera is no stranger to the music industry, having released her debut album Fortunes in 2020 to critical acclaim. But “Unchained” shows a new side of Madera’s artistry, as she takes on a classic track and makes it her own. In fact, Madera’s cover of “Unchained” has drawn comparisons to other famous covers that have achieved critical and commercial success.

One of the most notable examples is Jeff Buckley’s cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” Like Madera, Buckley took a classic song and made it his own, adding his own unique spin to the lyrics and melody. Buckley’s cover has since become iconic, and Madera’s take on “Unchained” has the potential to follow in its footsteps. Another example is Jimi Hendrix’s cover of Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower.” Hendrix’s cover was so well-received that it has often been mistaken for the original version of the song. Madera’s cover of “Unchained” may not achieve quite the same level of cultural significance as Hendrix’s cover, but it is a testament to her skill as a musician and her ability to interpret a classic song in a fresh and exciting way.

But while comparisons to other famous covers are inevitable, Madera’s version of “Unchained” stands on its own as a powerful and moving piece of music. Her vocals are raw and emotional, perfectly capturing the spirit of the lyrics. The guitar-forward instrumentation adds to the melancholic mood of the song, creating a haunting and unforgettable listening experience.

Madera’s growth as an artist is evident in “Unchained.” While her debut album Fortunes showcased her impressive songwriting skills and ability to craft catchy, upbeat tunes, “Unchained” proves that she is equally adept at tackling more somber and introspective material. The fact that she chose to cover such an iconic song shows her confidence in her own abilities, and her willingness to take risks as an artist.

Jesse Lynn Madera’s “Unchained” is a powerful and moving cover that showcases her skills as a musician and her growth as an artist. While it may draw comparisons to other famous covers, it stands on its own as a unique and compelling interpretation of a classic song. Fans of Madera’s debut album will appreciate the new direction she takes with “Unchained,” and newcomers to her music will undoubtedly be drawn in by the emotional depth of the track. With this release, Madera proves that she is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, and one to watch in the coming years.

Samuel Pratt