Meaning of "Dear Yessie" by Jessie Reyez

"Dear Yessie" is a track that explores Jessie Reyez's unapologetic authenticity, empowerment, and defiance against societal norms. As a minority artist, Reyez confronts the obstacles she faces, not being readily accepted or given the same opportunities as others. She asserts her realness and refuses to conform to expectations, emphasizing her refusal to be delicate. Reyez recognizes her own worth and dismisses replicas, confident in her uniqueness and truth. Through expressing her sexual desires and preferences, Reyez embraces her power and the control she holds in relationships. She takes pleasure in dominating and acknowledges that others aspire to be like her.

In the following verses, Reyez delves deeper into her personal struggles and vulnerabilities. She reveals her sensitivity and protectiveness towards her family, threatening those who harm her loved ones. While she is usually kind, she warns that she can be driven to violence if provoked. Reyez showcases her resilience and ability to overcome negativity, focusing on her success and disregarding those who try to harm her. She attests to the power of her artistry, as her fans continue to support her and render her adversaries irrelevant.

Reyez also reflects on the challenges of navigating fame and success. She aspires to leave a lasting legacy and acknowledges the sacrifices and penalties that come with achieving her goals. Reyez references Robbie and Amy, presumably referring to the late musicians Robbie Williams and Amy Winehouse, who were well-known for their struggles with fame and personal demons. Despite the tests she faces, Reyez remains grateful for the blessings in her life and treasures her energy and authenticity.

Furthermore, Reyez questions the authenticity of those who claim to be socially conscious but demonstrate hypocrisy. She critiques the so-called "fake woke" individuals who engage in performative activism without genuine intention. Reyez associates herself with real, genuine individuals, listing Junia-T as an example. She asserts her unbothered attitude and resilience, likening herself to the people's champion, Obama, and dismissing those who fail to understand her, represented by Melania Trump.

In essence, "Dear Yessie" is an anthem of self-expression, empowerment, and defiance. Jessie Reyez celebrates her unapologetic authenticity, highlights her sexual desires and dominance in relationships, confronts personal struggles and vulnerabilities, and critiques fake activism. She affirms her resilience and authentic connections while dismissing those who try to bring her down.