Credit: Photography: Yolanda van der Kolk-Brown
Tara Van is a singer-songwriter from Toronto who creates a unique sound by blending soul, folk, pop, and jazz genres, resulting in music that is both deep and reflective of her personal experiences. Her music mirrors her personal journey of self-discovery and emotional sincerity, as she expresses her emotions through each note and lyric. After receiving a diagnosis of ADHD shortly before her album Rise was released last year, Tara had a significant change in how she tackled her music and daily activities. This diagnosis provided her with a feeling of understanding and belief in herself that has influenced her artistic journey. She has fully accepted her authentic self, unencumbered by criticism and external influences, and her latest creations reflect this personal growth. Her sound is earthly yet heavenly, drawing listeners into a realm where choral blends and personal instances coalesce effortlessly.
Tara Van’s most recent work, “Glow,” debuted on October 4th, 2024, is a compelling portrayal of self-liberation and authenticity through visuals and music. The music video mirrors the song’s main message by showcasing the celebration of individual freedom and happiness in being true to oneself. In each frame, Tara welcomes viewers to her world, where self-doubt and external judgment have been removed, showcasing only happiness and self-acceptance. The video’s appeal is not dependent on elaborate sets or complicated storylines, but rather on Tara’s simple yet captivating presence. Watching an artist deeply connected to their music and movement is captivating, and this video beautifully captures that essence.
A standout feature of the “Glow” video is its emphasis on Tara as an individual. The video doesn’t showcase any grand backgrounds, extra characters, or intricate dance routines. Instead, the focus is solely on Tara, making her the main focal point. This choice not only showcases her innate charm but also fits flawlessly with the song’s message of self-celebration. Observing Tara’s joyful, almost uninhibited dancing and singing feels personal, like witnessing a private moment of genuine, unfiltered self-expression. The imagery mirrors the message of the lyrics, showing that the light you desire originates internally and genuine contentment is achieved by accepting yourself completely.
Tara’s portrayal in the video is both relaxed and strong. She moves effortlessly, appearing fully engaged in the music, surrendering to the rhythm, and allowing her body to instinctively follow the beat. Her dancing exudes a sense of spontaneity that seems unplanned, but still purposeful. It seems like she is dancing for her own enjoyment, not for the camera, to celebrate the freedom she experiences at that particular moment. The straightforwardness of the environment amplifies her performance’s brilliance. There are no interruptions, no superfluous elements—only Tara, the music, and her pure happiness. Her connection to the music is shown through her movements, transforming the video from a manufactured piece to an authentic depiction of the song’s emotions.
In terms of music, “Glow” is a lively, catchy song that combines various genres, similar to Tara’s overall musical style. The song features a funky, rhythmic sound that establishes a lively, positive atmosphere. The catchy rhythm does not overpower, creating a smooth quality for the song. The guitar plays a crucial role in the song, bringing warmth and depth to the music. Not only do the instrumentals shine, but the production is also noteworthy in how it is structured, enabling the various components of the song to harmonize and enhance each other without trying to outdo one another. Tara’s singing effortlessly glides above the music, striking a balance between deep emotion and carefree whimsy. This equilibrium reflects the song’s message of embracing happiness from independence and recognizing the inner development that has enabled that independence.
In terms of lyrics, “Glow” delivers a strong message about finding oneself and becoming empowered. The lyrics may appear to be about a relationship or someone else inspiring the listener, but in reality, the song is about self-reflection. Tara sings about breaking down the barriers that have restricted her and discovering that the radiance she searched for was within her all along. This theme deeply connects with those who have faced self-doubt or external pressures. The concept that self-improvement and self-assurance originate from one’s own being is a widely embraced idea, and Tara communicates it in a manner that is both intimate and easy to connect with. Her skill as a songwriter is evident in her capacity to convey a meaningful message in a song that is cheerful and uplifting.
“Glow” is a tribute to individual liberty and self-empowerment, reflected in both its lyrics and visuals. Tara Van has crafted an artwork that is both deeply personal and relatable to a wide audience. The video’s simplicity puts the song’s message front and center, serving as a reminder that genuine happiness stems from fully accepting oneself without any doubt or reluctance. Tara’s authenticity shines in her performance, making “Glow” a standout in her impressive portfolio. This is not just a music video, but a visual and musical declaration of independence, encouraging everyone who watches to find their own glow and let it shine. Go watch it and let Tara Van inspire you to find your own glow.
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