Jay Som and Hayley Williams Unite for "Past Lives" Video Ahead of Pitchfork London
Jay Som has released the video for "Past Lives", her collaboration with Paramore’s Hayley Williams, just before her performance at Pitchfork Festival London on Saturday, November 8. The song comes from her new album Belong, her first full-length release in over six years.
A Return with Belong
Belong, released earlier this year on Lucky Number, marks a confident return for Jay Som after her break from solo work. Since her 2019 album Anak Ko, Melina Duterte (Jay Som) has built a strong reputation as a producer and engineer for artists including Boygenius, Lucy Dacus, Troye Sivan, and Beabadoobee.
She also joined Boygenius on tour, contributing guitar and vocals to their performances. With Belong, Jay Som reclaims her place in the spotlight and continues to expand her creative reach.
Critical Reception
The Observer called it “a reminder of why she’s one of the most quietly brilliant artists around.”
DIY described the album as “assured, emotionally rich and full of depth.”
The Guardian highlighted "Past Lives" as “the perfect soundtrack to getting introspective as the dark nights draw in.”
About the Video
The animated video for "Past Lives," directed by Daniel Topete, visually reflects the song’s themes of spiraling reflection and emotional renewal through vivid color and motion. The track itself has quickly become a fan favorite, celebrated for its slow-building, introspective mood.
Duterte’s Reflection
Duterte explained that Belong is about “trying to find where I fit after stepping away for a while.”
Across its 11 tracks, the album captures her journey of rediscovery and belonging, reaffirming her distinctive voice in the indie scene.
Author’s Summary
Jay Som’s "Past Lives" video with Hayley Williams signals her artistic rebirth, pairing introspective visuals and sound ahead of a triumphant return at Pitchfork Festival London.