Cincinnati-based duo JJ & The Mood, made up of multi-hyphenate cartoonist Jack Sjogren and songwriter/producer Joey Joseph, is releasing their latest single Tired Of Being Tough today. The duo continues to create synthetic and hyper danceable music that questions the masculine norms of society. Their message is for people to be true to themselves and that we shouldn’t be afraid to show off the distinct parts of our identity to others.
Tired Of Being Tough begins with an intense set of drums that rhythmically flows into the message of the song: I’m tired of being tough. Sjogren’s lyrics push against the expectations of men in society and how they often have to be seen as stoic or tough. His message is underscored by the duo’s signature synthetic style, which is extremely catchy, and you can find yourself quickly vibing to the rhythm of the music in just the first few seconds of the song.
This beat leads to a head-banging and toe-tapping experience. You could easily find this song on the dance floor of a club, or have it playing in the background while you are hanging out with some of your buddies. It is an extremely versatile song with an ear-catching beat, but it also has a deep message about toxic masculinity and how people might present themselves.
Tired Of Being Tough is a narrative that many around the world can feel on various levels. Whether that be someone struggling with their gender identity/their role in society, or just how we struggle to show off the ‘other’ part of ourselves to the rest of the world. Sjogren and Joseph continue to create innovative and catchy music that not only creates yet another hummable tune to their catalog, but also a thought-provoking message that, yes, you don’t have to be afraid to be different, odd, emotional, or most importantly, don’t be afraid to be…silly.