Jordan Ward - FORWARD [Clear Pink]

Jordan Ward's FORWARD moves like it was written by a dancer, and it was. This pressing comes on clear pink vinyl.

Raised in St. Louis and trained in ballet, jazz and hip-hop dance, Ward toured as a backup dancer for stars including Janet Jackson, Usher and Beyoncé before he began releasing his own songs in 2017. His debut album arrived in 2023 on Interscope, executive produced by Lido, and earned a place on Rolling Stone's list of the year's best albums along with an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding New Artist. Before that, a run of singles and EPs, including Remain Calm, helped him build a loyal following.

The record blends R&B, funk and hip-hop with an easy, sunny bounce and a dancer's feel for rhythm. "Bussdown" opens the album, "IDC" brings in Joony, and "White Crocs," featuring Ryan Trey, became one of its standout singles. "Famjam4000" keeps the mood warm and close-knit, while guests including Joyce Wrice and Gwen Bunn add extra colour along the way, and the whole thing moves with the light-footed ease of someone who has spent a lifetime on stage.

Smooth without feeling slick, FORWARD sounds like long summer evenings and good company. It is an assured, colourful debut, and the clear pink vinyl suits its bright, breezy personality.