Geneviève Racette – “Instagram” (Single Review)

Jenna Melanson·August 19, 2024

GENEVIÈVE RACETTE RELEASES POWERFUL NEW SINGLE “INSTAGRAM” WITH CINEMATIC LYRIC VIDEO

Acclaimed Montréal-based folk-pop musician Geneviève Racette is set to release her thought-provoking new single, “Instagram,” on August 16, 2024. This latest track from her forthcoming album Golden (out Fall 2024) delves into the complex emotions of inadequacy, envy, and the pressure to present flawless lives on social media, offering a raw and relatable narrative in today’s digital age.

“Instagram” reflects the feelings of self-doubt that arise as we compare our lives to the seemingly perfect, filtered realities shared by others online. The song captures the internal struggle to maintain an idealized persona while grappling with personal challenges and the addictive pull of our devices that perpetuates this cycle. Racette’s evocative lyrics bring to light the pervasive impact of social media on our mental well-being, highlighting the often-overlooked emotional toll of constant comparison and the pressure to appear happy.

Produced by Geneviève Racette and François-Pierre Lue, with songwriting credits shared by Racette, Lydia Sutherland, and Aaron Pollock, “Instagram” is a poignant addition to Racette’s growing body of work that continues to resonate with audiences across Canada and beyond.

Since her debut EP in 2014, Geneviève Racette has become a rising star in the Canadian music scene, captivating listeners with her ethereal vocals and vulnerable lyricism. Her third full-length album, Satellite, released in March 2022, garnered widespread acclaim, earning praise from major outlets like Rolling Stone, Exclaim!, and CBC, and featuring a stunning duet with City and Colour’s Dallas Green.

With over 80% of her team comprising women-identifying musicians and industry members, Geneviève continues to prioritize collaboration with like-minded individuals in the music industry, a reflection of her commitment to supporting women in music. As she prepares to release her highly anticipated fourth record, Golden, in the fall of 2024, “Instagram” serves as a powerful prelude, offering fans a taste of her evolving artistry and deepening lyrical exploration.

Review

Geneviève Racette’s latest single, “Instagram,” captures the emotional rollercoaster of social media and its effects on self-esteem. Teaming up with Lydia Sutherland and Aaron Pollock, Racette delivers a raw look at the disparity between the polished lives we see online and our own everyday struggles.

The chorus hits hard as Racette confesses to feeling overshadowed by others, lamenting that “she’s prettier, her life seems dreamier,” and even wishing she could “throw [her] phone.” This honest portrayal of comparison strikes a chord in a world where social media often blurs the line between reality and illusion.

With its heartfelt lyrics and Racette’s expressive vocals, “Instagram” offers a powerful take on the challenges of living in a digital age.

Upcoming Shows:
September 12 Maison de la culture Marie-Uguay, Montréal, QC
September 25 South West Folk Alliance Conference, Austin, TX
October 4 Album listening party, Montreal, QC
October 11 Camden Opera House, Camden, ME
October 12 Blue Portland Maine, Portland, ME
October 13 The Music Hall Lounge, Portsmouth, NH
October 15 The Burren, Somerville, MA
October 18 Krobath Concert Series, Hatfield, PA
October 19 Voices in the Heights, Brooklyn, NY
October 20 Concerts at the Sevareid House, Alexandria, VA
October 24 The Listening Booth, Lewes, DE
November 2 Bowery Vault, Nashville, TN
November 7 Moser Center for the Performing Arts, Joliet, IL
November 8 Bishop Hill Creative Commons, Bishop Hill, IL
November 9 UncommonGround, Chicago, IL
November 14 20 Front Street, Lake Orion, MI
November 22 Burdock, Toronto, ON
November 23 Waterford Old Town Hall, Waterford, ON