- Words Notion Staff
After making his long awaited return with his new single, ‘Safe’, we talk with the singer-songwriter about its influences, what it means to support John Mayer and why Lana Del Rey is back on his playlists.
JP Saxe is no stranger to baring his soul. The multi-platinum, GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter has made a career of turning life’s most intimate moments into deeply relatable songs, blending wit and vulnerability in a way that resonates across genres and audiences. After more than a year away from releasing solo material, JP returns with the new single ‘Safe’, a heartfelt new single that explores what it really means to protect the people we love – not with grand gestures, but through emotional openness and genuine care.
Premiering ‘Safe’ live at New York’s Bowery Ballroom, JP took the opportunity to transform his single release show into a benefit for those affected by the recent Los Angeles wildfires. Joined by friends and fellow artists Allison Ponthier, Ally Salort, Elliot Skinner and Kristiane, the night raised funds and awareness while offering fans a first listen to his new track. The event has been praised for its intimate performances and meaningful message, highlighting how the single reflects community and connection during challenging times.
Musically, ‘Safe’ marks a fresh chapter for JP, leaning into beat-driven production with a mix of reversed soul samples, shimmering keys, and crunchy drums, courtesy of GRAMMY-winning producer Malay (Frank Ocean, Lorde). The track’s mellow groove frames his trademark blend of reflection and humour, as he recounts a journey from playground fights to emotional vulnerability. At its core, ‘Safe’ is an anthem for rethinking what strength and protection look like in relationships – reminding us all to check in, show up, and make space for the people we love.
Here, we talk to JP Saxe about the new single, what it means to support John Mayer and why Lana Del Rey is back on his playlists.
‘Safe’ marks your first solo release in over a year. What made this the right song to return with?
This song is about me understanding my own masculinity, my own desire to love, and the ways that I love, separate from the societal structures that make loving, in a masculine sense, about withholding, stoicism and physical protection. This is me recognising how much more relevant it has been in my own life to be emotionally protective.
You’ve reunited with Malay. What is it about your collaboration that keeps you coming back?
Malay’s the fucking best. I love his creativity. He’s always trying to push boundaries and we’ve created quite an unspoken collaborative language that I’m so grateful for.
What do you hope listeners take away from ‘Safe’?
I hope it brings them close to the part of themselves that wants to love like a good listener.
Who were you listening to while making the track?
I’m always listening to a whole mess of things. I don’t remember exactly who it was at the time, but I was in Nashville so I was probably just studying my songwriter lineage.
You’ve spent the past year touring worldwide, including supporting John Mayer. How has that experience influenced your songwriting?
Watching John command an arena every night with just a single instrument and his voice is a real testament to songwriting. The consistent reminder that if you’re being sincere and your melodies matter, you don’t need much else.
Performing live is a big part of your artistry. Did road-testing ‘Safe’ in front of an audience shape it in any way?
You know what? I actually didn’t play ‘Safe’ on the road at all. I wrote it over the summer after the tour, so it was kind of a shot in the dark, but I tested on my friends and they seemed to fuck with it.
What have you learned about yourself while on tour?
I’ve learned that without my friends, I am a useless piece of shit.
Who’s on your playlists at the moment?
At the moment I have been listening to a lot of Madonna, rediscovering some Lana Del Rey and digging back into the Alanis Morissette catalogue.
What are your New Year’s resolutions?
Conquer the morning. I’ve accepted my entire life that I am a night person and I’m trying to challenge that assertion by conquering the morning.
What’s next for JP Saxe?
I would like to continue to tell you too much about myself in songs that bring you closer to the version of yourself you’re hiding from.