Zay Jackson - Cheat Code (EP)
Zay Jackson’s new EP, Cheat Code, feels like the kind of R&B release that stays with you long after the last track fades. Across six tracks, the Virginia born artist unpacks the rise and fall of a relationship that was never meant to last. Known for his smooth falsetto, intricate harmonies, and emotional storytelling, Zay delivers a project that feels cinematic yet deeply personal. Each song connects to the next, following a clear narrative from the spark of forbidden love to the quiet loneliness of heartbreak. It is an honest, fully realised body of work that captures the emotional complexity of modern relationships.
The heart of Cheat Code lies in moments like “Parts Of Me,” where Zay reflects on loss and self discovery with disarming sincerity. His voice aches with regret as he sings, “At first we could do no wrong, but I woke up without you and had to find out you’re gone.” That lyric alone captures the sting of realising that something once beautiful has slipped away. The production wraps his vocals in soft synths and subtle percussion, allowing the emotion to take centre stage. Elsewhere, on the title track “Cheat Code,” Zay faces the consequences of temptation, confronting his own flaws with maturity and self-awareness. These songs reveal an artist who understands that heartbreak is as much about growth as it is about pain.
Sonically, Cheat Code blends the lush textures of contemporary R&B with the intimacy of classic soul. The arrangements are spacious and deliberate, giving Zay’s vocals room to shine. His tone moves effortlessly between strength and fragility, showing a confidence that never feels forced. The cohesive sound and clear storytelling make the project feel like a journey rather than just a collection of songs.
By the end of Cheat Code, Zay Jackson proves he is not just an R&B singer but a storyteller with something real to say. His writing is heartfelt, his delivery sincere, and his sound distinct. This EP marks a pivotal moment in his evolution, one that showcases his ability to turn personal heartbreak into music that resonates far beyond his own experience. Cheat Code is the sound of an artist stepping into his truth and inviting listeners to feel every word with him.