Behind the Scenes of “Jourdan’s Club”: A Conversation with Jourdan McDaniel
In their latest music video, “Jourdan’s Club,” Spanish artist Jourdan McDaniel takes us on a deeply personal journey, exploring the concept of “safe spaces” in a world that often falls short of truly providing them. During our chat, Jourdan shared the inspiration behind the song, the creative process, and the powerful themes that shape both the music and visuals.
A Different Kind of Safe Space
“My inspiration for this track was to imagine a true safe space,” Jourdan begins. “It’s funny how clubs, parties, and discotheques often promise to be ‘safe spaces’, complete with policies against discrimination. But in reality, these places can be quite the opposite, especially for someone like me – a racialised person in Spain. Clubs can often be hostile, where people harass you, grope you, and even the security staff seem more interested in checking out women than protecting us from harm.”
Jourdan talks candidly about the racism and transphobia still rampant in supposedly inclusive venues. “How many times have we been kicked out because of our skin colour? Or denied entry for being trans? These so-called ‘safe spaces’ are anything but. That’s why I felt compelled to write a song about it. True safe spaces aren’t just places – they are people. In ‘Jourdan’s Club,’ I’ve brought together all those who have shaped my life, my chosen family, the ones who have supported me from day one. This song is for them.”
Expressing Anger Through Art
Jourdan explains that the theme of the song reflects lived experiences rather than abstract exploration. “People like to think colonialism is over and racism no longer exists – they lie. Many of us live with it 24/7, from the looks we get on the bus to the constant questioning of our legitimacy, always viewed through a white supremacist lens.”
Previously, Jourdan expressed this anger on social media, but now it’s channelled into music. “I pour my frustration into my lyrics, writing them down like a diary, and then recording them in the studio. For the visuals, I wanted something vintage, something that would echo the 90s and early 2000s R&B scene, a nod to the black American women who have always inspired me.”
Styling with Purpose
Collaborating with stylist Issa, Jourdan curated a look that blended seamlessly with the music video’s environment. “We chose colours that matched the setting to create a sort of chameleon effect, symbolising the way many of us have to blend in or hide in our daily lives due to safety, religion, or family reasons.”
The video also features Jourdan’s chosen family, “the people who are always there for me, whether I need them or not. Including them in this piece felt like sealing our bond of friendship even more tightly. No matter where I go, I will always carry them in my music.”
A Tribute to Fashion
Fashion plays a crucial role in Jourdan’s artistry. “Fashion and music are intertwined. I can’t feel like a goddess without being dressed like one. From my hair to my heels, everything is an extension of me. I see fashion as the ultimate form of expression; it tells a story, and when it’s not narrating, it enhances the narrative.”
Jourdan draws inspiration from legendary black female rappers such as Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliott, Lady Leshurr, Nicki Minaj, and Beyoncé. “They inspire my verses and my style. Seeing them owning their look – from human hair wigs to 20 cm nails – is what I aspire to be. Not for the fame, but because they’ve risen from the mud to create a space for themselves, a playground where we all try to play.”
Continuing the Journey
Jourdan’s obsession with fashion has only grown over time, even leading to modelling opportunities. “Yes, I know that high fashion is classist and inaccessible to most, but it would be hypocritical of me to deny that its designs captivate me. Haute couture is my red flag,” Jourdan jokes.
Reflecting on the influences from the ballroom scene, Jourdan speaks passionately about its impact. “Ballroom changed my perception of fashion. It’s a competition where people create incredible looks with minimal resources. These looks stay with me, even if I don’t know the names of those who wore them. They make it feel like Schiaparelli, even when it isn’t.”
Stay Connected with Jourdan McDaniel
To see all of Jourdan’s audiovisual content, check out their YouTube page, Jourdan McDaniel. You can also find them on all major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and TikTok. Just search “Jourdan McDaniel” – because, as Jourdan says, “there’s only one of me.”
Wardrobe Stylist: Issanalien
IG: issanalien
Photographer: Fran Berbel
IG: franberbelfoto
Hair Stylist: Noespelukaesungato
IG: noespelukaesungato
Model: Meetjourdan
IG: meetjourdan