Jay Som Returns with “Belong”: A New Chapter for Queer Indie Rock

On October 10, 2025, Filipina-American queer singer-songwriter Jay Som unveiled her much-anticipated fourth solo album, “Belong” , marking her first solo release in several years. Coming off a period spent supporting other artists and touring with supergroup boygenius, Jay Som’s latest work is both a personal and musical evolution. The album foregrounds her soft vocal style, inventive production, and contributions from prominent artists like Hayley Williams and Jim Adkins , reflecting a new phase in her career that resonates strongly within LGBTQ+ music circles.

Jay Som, born Melina Duterte, is recognized for her role in expanding the boundaries of indie rock and bedroom pop. Her early releases, including “See You, Later” and “Finding What You’re Looking For In the Closet,” established her as a thoughtful, genre-blending artist whose music often explores themes of identity, introspection, and resilience. As a queer Filipina-American, Jay Som’s presence has been especially meaningful for underrepresented LGBTQ+ and Asian American communities in indie music, inspiring listeners who see their own experiences reflected in her lyrics and career trajectory.

After producing for artists like Hatchie, Chris Farren, and Chastity Belt, and serving as boygenius’ bassist on tour, Jay Som returned to her solo project with an expanded musical vocabulary. “Belong” draws on these collaborative experiences, while still centering her signature introspective songwriting and sonic experimentation.

“Belong” is characterized by its dreamy, layered soundscapes, gentle experimentation, and lyrics that invite deep reflection. The album opens with “Meander,” a lo-fi, distorted introduction that transitions into the bright, clean “Sprouting Wings.” On tracks like “A Million Reasons Why,” Jay Som’s pitch-shifted vocals and field recordings of laughter capture an intimate, playful atmosphere. “Cards on the Table” features acoustic guitar alongside programmed drums and synthesizers, creating a sound that is both modern and folk-based. Throughout the record, Jay Som explores themes of friendship, betrayal, personal growth, and belonging, all filtered through her unique queer lens.

Her musical evolution is evident—moving far beyond the simple arrangements of her bedroom pop beginnings, she now employs a studio-driven approach that blends folk strumming with contemporary electronic elements. This progression is particularly pronounced in tracks like “D. H.,” which showcase soaring guitar solos and dynamic song structures.

“Belong” features collaborations with genre icons Hayley Williams and Jim Adkins, who contribute vocals and creative energy to the project. These partnerships position Jay Som as a peer among established artists, further elevating her profile within the indie and LGBTQ+ music communities.

The album also benefits from Jay Som’s production expertise, honed through years of working with diverse acts. Her ability to blend influences and experiment with sound has been praised by critics, solidifying her reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.

The release of “Belong” has sparked widespread excitement among fans and critics, particularly within LGBTQ+ circles. Early reviews highlight the album’s introspective mood and sonic diversity, with Gay City News describing it as “distinguished by light, playful experimentation” and “forcing the listener to stretch for its meaning”.

On social media platforms, fans have lauded Jay Som for her vulnerability and musical growth, sharing personal stories about how her music has helped them navigate their own queer identities. The album’s collaborative tracks have generated particular buzz, with listeners expressing appreciation for the sense of community and solidarity they evoke.

Industry response has also been positive, with “Belong” featured in roundups of essential LGBTQ+ music releases for October 2025. Jay Som’s return to solo work is seen as a significant moment for queer representation in indie music, and her willingness to foreground her identity in both her art and public persona continues to earn respect from fellow musicians and critics.

Jay Som’s visibility as a queer Filipina-American artist is integral to the album’s impact. “Belong” has been embraced not only for its musical qualities but also for the way it affirms LGBTQ+ identities and experiences. Her choice to center collaboration and introspection in her music resonates with listeners seeking representation and connection in the indie rock landscape.

Through both her lyrics and her career choices, Jay Som models a path for queer artists seeking creative authenticity and community. The album’s themes of belonging and self-discovery are deeply entwined with LGBTQ+ narratives, making “Belong” a significant cultural moment for fans and fellow musicians alike.

Jay Som’s “Belong” stands as a testament to her growth as an artist and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. The album’s release has been met with critical acclaim and enthusiastic fan engagement, underscoring her lasting influence on queer indie music. As she continues to push boundaries and foster collaboration, Jay Som’s work offers both inspiration and affirmation for LGBTQ+ listeners, solidifying her role as a vital voice in contemporary music.