Jordan Ward’s BACKWARD is a smooth, introspective blend of R&B and hip-hop that feels both personal and accessible.

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TOP 5 SONGS

5. SMOKING POTNA

The title alone tells you this one isn’t your average smoking song.

 “Smoking Potna” is a playful twist on smoking partner, and Jordan Ward uses it to describe intimacy in its simplest form. Featuring SAILORR, the track is about only wanting to smoke with the person you actually care about. His girl doesn’t pass blunts around, doesn’t even get high unless he’s there — because being with him already elevates the experience. It’s sweet, affectionate, and laid-back, with an effortless groove that makes it feel like a late-night drive or a quiet moment on the couch.

4. CARSEX

“CARSEX” shifts the mood and leans more heavily into hip-hop energy.

This track is about success, momentum, and enjoying the ride that comes with leveling up. Jordan flexes about money, cars, shows, and lifestyle without losing his cool, understated delivery. TiaCorine’s feature adds an extra layer of confidence and edge, making this one feel like a victory lap. It’s fun, flashy, and a strong bonus addition to the project.

3. Champion Sound

This is one of the most heartfelt moments on BACKWARD.

 “Champion Sound” is a tribute to Jordan Ward’s mother. He reflects on wanting to make her proud, only to realize that she was the real champion all along. She provided love, guidance, and strength even when resources were limited. Jordan acknowledges his own mistakes and growth, tying his personal journey back to the foundation she gave him. It’s sincere, emotional, and grounding — a reminder of where he comes from and who he wants to be.

2. Y

“Y” is a pure love song, and one of the album’s most romantic moments.

 Jordan explains why he loves the way he does — why he spends money on luxury stays, why he wants her by his side, why she’s worth the investment. He sings about choosing her not just in this life, but in others too, committing fully despite whatever struggles may come. It’s tender, passionate, and reassuring, capturing what it feels like to be truly all-in with someone.

1. NOISY NEIGHBORS

This track zooms out and looks at life from a wider lens.

 Jordan paints vivid pictures of different neighbors, all dealing with their own battles — loneliness, addiction, overindulgence, survival. Despite the differences, they all want the same thing: peace, safety, and a place that feels like home. “Noisy Neighbors” is deeply human and relatable, reminding listeners that everyone is fighting something behind closed doors. It’s reflective without being preachy, and emotionally grounding in the middle of the album.

SONG BY SONG RATING

STRANGER (4/5)
SMOKING POTNA (4/5)
HIGH FUNCTIONING (3.5/5)
BWD (N/A)
ROSS FIT (4/5)
NOISY NEIGHBORS (4/5)
CHANGE OF SCENERY (4/5)
JUICY (3.5/5)
THEMSELVES (4/5)
TAKE-OUT (4/5)
TIL THEN (4/5)
CHAMPION SOUND (4/5)
Y (4/5)
CUTTI- BONUS (4/5)
CARSEX – BONUS (4/5)

RGM RATING

(79%)

 BACKWARD explores love, growth, family, success, and self-reflection without ever feeling forced or overly conceptual. Jordan moves effortlessly between intimate moments and broader observations about life, creating a project that feels grounded and real.

What makes BACKWARD stand out is its balance. It’s fun without being shallow, emotional without being heavy, and reflective without slowing the momentum. The production stays clean and fluid, allowing Jordan’s voice and storytelling to lead the experience. Features from SAILORR, Smino, and TiaCorine complement the project without overshadowing him, adding variety while keeping the album cohesive.

Overall, BACKWARD feels like a snapshot of an artist who knows who he is, where he’s been, and where he’s headed. It’s an album you can vibe to casually or sit with intentionally — and either way, it leaves a lasting impression.

Ileyah

Ileyah is a mom, a writer and a musician. She loves late nights and gluten free snacks.