April Jai is carving her space in the alt-pop world with a sound and style that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique. A Scottish native now based in London, her journey as an artist is shaped by influences like Fletcher, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and UPSAHL. Yet, what sets her apart is her self-described aesthetic: “depression with a hint of badass.” It’s a phrase that perfectly captures her knack for blending emotionally charged storytelling with an edge that resonates deeply with her fans.
Her latest single, “Fakin’ It,” is the lead track from her newest EP Between The Pages, a project inspired entirely by the romance novels she adores. True to form, Jai brings her love of narrative to life through music, diving into the popular trope of “fake dating.” The song explores the delicate dance between two people who vehemently deny their feelings, all while everyone else can see the sparks flying. This slow-burn, friends-to-lovers anthem is a masterclass in alt-pop storytelling, layered with Jai’s signature moody undertones and lush production.
“Fakin’ It” follows the viral success of her previous single, “Morally Grey,” which struck a chord with fans on social media and found a unique connection with those who saw their favorite literary characters in its lyrics. The demand for more was so overwhelming that Jai released an alternate version featuring alt-rock artist Nation Haven, further solidifying her ability to bridge genres and audiences. Spotify even named an editorial playlist after the track, a testament to her growing influence in the music world.
Critics have already taken note of Jai’s artistry, with publications like Wonderland and Record Of The Day dubbing her “one to watch.” As she continues to craft songs that feel like pages ripped from the novels she loves, April Jai is proving that alt-pop can be as rich in narrative as it is in sound. With “Fakin’ It,” she invites listeners to lose themselves in a world of tension, longing, and the bittersweet beauty of unspoken love.
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apriljaimusic