As we navigate 2025, recording artist Jackie Spade invites listeners on a profound and transformative journey with his latest project, U.G.L.Y. R.O.S.E. (Undeniably Gonna Love You Regardless Of Some Experiences). This multi-dimensional work — spanning an album, short film, and creative residency — marks a pivotal chapter in Jackie’s career, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to weave raw emotion into soulful melodies and heartfelt storytelling.
Known for his sharp lyricism and high-energy rap, Jackie steps into uncharted territory with U.G.L.Y. R.O.S.E., exploring the beauty and complexities of love through a deeply personal lens. From the joy and passion to the heartbreak and healing, the project captures the full spectrum of relationships, making it as relatable as it is groundbreaking.
Set to bring this narrative to life further, Jackie is kicking off a creative residency at GROW in Greensboro, NC, where he will transform the space into a living representation of his artistry, inviting fans to witness his process and connect in an intimate setting. “Releasing U.G.L.Y. R.O.S.E. felt like a rebirth,” Jackie shares. “It’s a reminder that growth is beautiful — even when it’s messy.”
Jackie Spade’s journey continues to inspire, proving that authenticity and vulnerability are the keys to pushing boundaries and creating a lasting legacy.
What was the catalyst for creating U.G.L.Y. R.O.S.E., and how does it differ from your previous projects?
JS: One day, I felt I lacked love in my life. That feeling somehow turned into my desire to become a more vulnerable artist with my music. I went entirely left field with this album because I focused on rap in my previous work. It was just cool vibes and I was focused on lyricism with some braggadocios moments.
The project explores the complexities of love. How did your own personal experiences shape the album and short film?
JS: The entire album, outside of one song, was inspired by a previous relationship. I drew from the emotions I was dealing with and then mixed them with a hindsight perspective. The album then inspired me to write the short film. I wanted to create something to visually represent the mood I set with the album.
Was there a specific moment during the creation process that felt like a breakthrough for you emotionally or artistically?
JS: Yes, when I wrote “Call Me” and “Anybody’s Body.” “Call Me” is a direct mental conversation I actually had with myself, and “Anybody’s Body” is kind of like an open letter. Writing those two songs almost felt like the most personal I’ve ever been with my music.
How has embracing vulnerability in your music challenged you as an artist and as a person?
JS: As an artist, I really haven’t felt a “challenge.” It feels more liberating than challenging. It’s almost like a bird freed from a cage. But, in my day-to-day life, being vulnerable in this album tested my current relationship to the max. But that’s a longer story.
You describe the album as a rebirth. What did you have to let go of to embrace this new chapter in your artistry?
JS: My ego. Once I finally released myself from my ego of not feeling like a simp or genuinely not caring about what kind of feedback I received — whether it was on the lyrics or my voice–I felt like a brand new artist.
What message about growth and healing do you hope listeners take away from U.G.L.Y. R.O.S.E.?
JS: I want listeners to understand that love is a cycle. How we respond to the tests we are given when we experience it can make or break us. Use how you react to situations to self-reflect and figure out what made you react a certain way. Then, try to figure out what trauma it stems from in your past and try to heal from it.
Your residency at GROW offers an intimate connection to your creative process. What inspired you to share your art in this unique way?
JS: I’m always thinking of ways to set myself apart from other artists and try to figure out how to make a statement with my music. So, once I was selected for GROW, it was a no-brainer.
What else would you like our readers to know about you at this time?
JS: Imagine if Mike Tyson’s “Best Ever” speech came from a music artist. That’s me! Keep watching.
With recognition from platforms like XXL and BET, how do you see your influence growing within the hip-hop and broader music communities?
JS: Honestly, I don’t pay much attention to it. I’ve been in spaces where I receive love and recognition, and some artists have asked me to offer insight into what I’ve learned in the game. Most people are still stuck on those two moments, but for me, they came and went. Although those were some dope moments in my career, what I’m aiming for is way beyond that.
How do you hope U.G.L.Y. R.O.S.E. contributes to your legacy as an artist who isn’t afraid to push boundaries?
JS: I hope that when I’m giving a Grammy speech, it becomes the album that people go back to and say, ‘That’s where it started when I knew Jack was gonna take over the world.’
Connect online @_jackiespade.
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