Houston-based rapper Jenae Inez brings a fresh, introspective style that’s capturing attention, especially with her music video for No Hellos. This single, part of her forthcoming EP Serendipity, is a powerful message wrapped in compelling visuals that speak to anyone on a journey of self-reflection, growth, and faith. Through her music, Jenae opens up about the challenges of breaking away from unhealthy routines and finding strength in faith.
“No Hellos” stands out not only for its unique sound but for its storytelling. Jenae has a knack for addressing serious themes in a way that feels accessible and even fun. While many songs focus on the end of a journey, “No Hellos” captures that in-between space, a kind of “work-in-progress” moment that feels authentic and relatable. It’s about those cycles we all go through, those habits that feel almost impossible to break, and the slow, sometimes painful journey of breaking free from them.
In the music video, animated by Pete Gavrovski, Jenae’s story comes to life through the unique charm of stop-motion animation. The technique brings her journey of self-reflection and growth into focus, with every movement adding to the song’s emotional intensity. The style of the animation gives the visuals a tactile, raw quality, making it more than just a music video—it’s a creative experience that invites viewers to connect with the story, feeling the weight of Jenae’s message beyond the lyrics.
The production team brought together top talent to bring this vision to life. Produced by Jasbir “Woah” Sehra, recorded by Chef Dillo, mixed by Tez Lamont, and mastered by James Auwarter, the track has a polished yet raw sound that perfectly fits the song’s themes. This all-star team of creatives helped Jenae achieve the powerful atmosphere she aimed for in “No Hellos.”
Jenae’s lyrics are a window into her thoughts and emotions as she reflects on her journey. Lines like, “Ain’t no hellos / Or how you doings / Ain’t no good mornings” capture that feeling of distancing oneself from old, toxic patterns. The song speaks to anyone who’s ever tried to leave behind something that was once a big part of their life but no longer serves them. It’s about learning to let go, even when it’s hard, and finding the strength to move forward.
Another powerful line, “This real as it go / The hardest part was finding strength to let go,” speaks to the challenge of breaking cycles. There’s a raw vulnerability in Jenae’s words that feels both honest and inspiring. She doesn’t shy away from the struggle, but instead, she celebrates it, turning it into a message of empowerment.
Throughout “No Hellos,” Jenae emphasizes the importance of faith as a foundation for her growth. She shares how her relationship with God has helped her find strength, even in the darkest moments. This faith-driven message adds a unique layer to the song, reminding listeners that personal growth often involves a deep sense of spirituality.
Jenae’s journey into music began in the most unexpected place: the car rides to school with her mom. Encouraged to freestyle during these rides, she quickly discovered her love for rap. Her mom, who used to rap, inspired Jenae to use music as a form of self-expression. What started as a way to release her emotions turned into a lifelong passion that has taken her across the globe.
Over the years, Jenae has crafted a style that’s both youthful and sharp, blending fast cadences with thought-provoking lyrics. She’s drawn inspiration from artists like Bone Thugs N Harmony, Missy Elliot, and Aaliyah, and her music has a cinematic quality that feels reminiscent of Missy’s bold approach. This fusion of influences has shaped Jenae into a rapper with a sound that feels fresh and familiar all at once.
Serendipity, Jenae’s upcoming EP, is an intimate collection of songs born from a period of transition and reflection. After leaving the Navy, Jenae struggled to find her footing. She stepped away from music to pursue a degree in psychology but found herself drawn back to rap as a form of therapy, especially after the loss of her grandmother. This EP represents her journey of healing and self-discovery, with each track acting as a “diary entry” that tells a different part of her story.
With tracks like Love Me Like I, The Town, and No Hellos, Jenae promises to take listeners on a journey through her personal highs and lows. The EP’s bonus track, Serendipity Summary, is her way of apologizing to fans for the delay in its release, giving them an extra piece of her story as a thank-you for their patience.
Jenae Inez’s No Hellos is an anthem for anyone who’s faced the hard work of self-growth. With powerful lyrics, great visuals, and a message rooted in faith, Jenae invites listeners to find strength within themselves and trust in their journey. It’s a reminder that growth is rarely easy, but it’s always worth it.
Follow Jenae Inez on social media: https://www.instagram.com/jenaeinez
