Jessica Lockwood “Act Like That” Review: A Retro Soul Anthem Inspired by Amy Winehouse
UNPUBLISHED
9 Lounges Team
3/10/2026


In a music landscape filled with polished pop and digital beats, Jessica Lockwood delivers something refreshingly authentic with her new single “Act Like That.” The track blends upbeat rhythms, finger snaps, and lively horn arrangements into a soulful throwback sound that instantly transports listeners to the golden era of retro soul.
Fans of classic soul influences will quickly notice shades of Amy Winehouse in the song’s stylistic approach. From the jazzy horn section to the emotionally honest songwriting, Lockwood captures that timeless blend of vulnerability and confidence that made Winehouse’s music so unforgettable.
But while the sonic inspiration may echo the past, “Act Like That” stands firmly in the present, telling a deeply relatable story about relationships that slowly fade and the realization that sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is move forward.
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A Story of One-Sided Effort
Lyrically, “Act Like That” dives deep into the frustration of one-sided relationships. From the opening verse, Lockwood establishes the emotional tension with lines about always initiating plans and conversations.
The narrative is familiar to many listeners:
Being the one who always checks in
Wondering why the effort isn’t reciprocated
Questioning whether the relationship has simply faded over time
Instead of leaning into bitterness, however, Lockwood delivers these reflections with confidence and clarity. The lyrics feel less like a complaint and more like a declaration of self-respect.
That emotional shift becomes especially powerful during the chorus, where she reflects on whether two people simply grew apart:
“Did we get too busy or did we just outgrow ourselves?”
It’s a simple line, yet it captures the quiet heartbreak that often accompanies drifting friendships or relationships.


A Song Born from Simplicity
Interestingly, “Act Like That” didn’t start out as the vibrant, horn-driven track we hear today. According to Lockwood, the song was originally written over two years ago as a stripped-down acoustic piece.
In its earliest form, the track consisted of light guitar and simple finger snaps, giving it a soft and reflective tone. As time passed, however, the song evolved. Lockwood recognized that the emotional message carried enough weight to support a much fuller musical arrangement.
The result is a dynamic, upbeat soul record that feels both classic and modern at the same time. The horn arrangements give the song a confident swagger, while the rhythmic snaps maintain the intimate feel of its acoustic beginnings.
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Energy, Soul, and Empowerment
One of the song’s biggest strengths lies in its balance between emotional storytelling and energetic production.
Even though the lyrics explore disappointment and closure, the music itself remains upbeat and vibrant. The horns inject a burst of personality, while the snapping rhythm gives the track an irresistible groove.
This contrast creates a powerful message: letting go doesn’t have to feel tragic—it can feel empowering.
Lockwood’s vocal delivery also plays a major role in bringing this message to life. Her voice moves smoothly between reflective verses and confident declarations, emphasizing the theme of personal growth.
From Heartbreak to Growth
By the time the final verse arrives, the story has shifted dramatically.
What began as a reflection on lost communication evolves into something more mature. The narrator acknowledges that life moves forward—people grow up, build families, and create new circles.
Yet there’s still compassion in the closing message. Even after the silence and distance, forgiveness remains possible.
That emotional maturity gives “Act Like That” a sense of closure rarely found in breakup or friendship-ending songs.
A Promising Voice in Modern Soul
With “Act Like That,” Jessica Lockwood proves that soulful storytelling still has a powerful place in today’s music world.
The track’s vintage energy, honest lyrics, and confident production create a listening experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
If this single is any indication, Lockwood is an artist capable of blending retro soul inspiration with contemporary emotional honesty—a combination that could easily resonate with audiences across genres.
For listeners who appreciate heartfelt songwriting with a groove, “Act Like That” is a track worth adding to your playlist.

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