The R&B/pop artist’s new visual for “Always Been You” supports 19 organizations nationwide through Rhythm & Relief’s music-based healing initiatives
Jada Nikole has released the official music video for “Always Been You,” her empowering anthem that continues breaking new ground in the intersection of entertainment and mental health advocacy. The R&B and pop crossover artist, who made history as Rhythm & Relief’s first music ambassador, unveiled the visual representation of her healing journey just in time for the holiday season.
The video, directed and edited by Jamar Harding, brings to life the song’s message of self-acceptance and personal growth through striking visual storytelling. Nikole, who wrote the track and developed the creative concept alongside Paula Northington, describes the video as a journey of self-realization that explores the different versions people carry within themselves.
“It reflects a journey of self-realization, exploring the different versions we carry and the growth they bring,” Nikole explained. “The mirror becomes the turning point, revealing wholeness instead of perfection. I hope it reminds you that you don’t need to escape yourself, you only need to return because it’s Always Been You.”
The release marks another milestone in Nikole’s partnership with Rhythm & Relief, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting groups that harness music’s power to improve health and well-being. Since joining the charity’s inaugural Rhythm Section music ambassador program in October, Nikole has become a leading voice in the movement to integrate music therapy into mainstream healthcare approaches.
Supporting nationwide healing initiatives
Every stream and purchase of “Always Been You” directly benefits Rhythm & Relief’s network of 19 Ensemble member organizations. These groups span the country, working with diverse populations to address physical and mental health challenges through evidence-based music interventions. Partner organizations include Music & Memory, which uses personalized playlists to improve quality of life for people with dementia and other cognitive disorders, and Sounds of Saving, which provides music therapy services to vulnerable communities.
Other beneficiaries include Music for All Seasons, which brings therapeutic music programs to healthcare facilities, and Project Music Heals Us, which focuses on using music to support emotional healing and resilience building. The breadth of these organizations reflects the versatility of music as a healing tool, addressing everything from neurological conditions to trauma recovery.
The song itself was produced by Grammy-winning producer Oak Felder, known for his work with major artists across multiple genres. This collaboration brings professional polish to Nikole’s authentic message, creating a track that resonates both as entertainment and as a tool for personal reflection and healing.
Visual storytelling meets therapeutic messaging
The music video’s narrative structure mirrors the therapeutic process many people experience when working through mental health challenges. By using mirrors as a central visual metaphor, the video illustrates the concept of self-examination and acceptance that forms the foundation of many healing practices.
This approach aligns with Rhythm & Relief’s broader mission to demonstrate how creative expression can facilitate therapeutic breakthroughs. The organization works to bridge the gap between traditional healthcare and innovative approaches that incorporate arts and music into treatment protocols.
Nikole’s role as a music ambassador extends beyond simply lending her voice to fundraising efforts. She actively participates in educational initiatives designed to raise awareness about music therapy’s clinical applications and works to destigmatize mental health treatment by sharing her own experiences with using music as a coping mechanism.
Building momentum for music-based healthcare
The timing of the video release strategically positions “Always Been You” to reach audiences during a season when many people reflect on personal growth and family connections. The holidays often bring both joy and stress, making messages about self-acceptance and inner healing particularly relevant.
Rhythm & Relief founder Glen Ward has emphasized the importance of having authentic voices like Nikole’s speaking to the power of music in healing contexts. The organization’s work focuses on providing resources and research to support the expansion of music therapy programs nationwide, particularly in underserved communities where mental health resources may be limited.
As “Always Been You” continues gaining traction across streaming platforms, Nikole is preparing for the release of her debut single “US,” which promises to further establish her as both an entertainer and advocate. Her unique position as someone who has experienced music’s healing power firsthand while also possessing the platform to share that message widely makes her an invaluable ambassador for the movement.
The video for “Always Been You” is available on all major platforms, with the song continuing to stream everywhere music is available. All proceeds support Rhythm & Relief’s ongoing work to expand access to music-based healing programs across the United States.
