CHICAGO — Actress and recording artist Ta’Rhonda Jones is preparing to release a new music project, Breaking Character, a body of work that centers on themes of identity, perception and personal evolution.
Jones, widely recognized for her presence on screen, is expanding her creative footprint through music (and education), while using the project to explore the complexities of stepping outside of familiar roles, both publicly and personally. She’s using this moment to inspire this likeness in others.
The forthcoming project includes tracks such as “Favor on My Soul” and “Villain,” which highlight contrasting emotional and narrative perspectives.
“Favor on My Soul” leans into themes of alignment, grace and forward movement with the likeness of The Most High, while “Villain” examines the tension that can arise when personal growth challenges external expectations.
Together, the records establish the conceptual foundation of Breaking Character, a project that reflects on the duality of being both affirmed and misunderstood but highly favored to walk the path chosen for you.
🎧 A Shift in Creative Direction
While Ta’Rhonda built her career through acting, Breaking Character signals a more expansive approach to storytelling even though if you go back to her older projects the storytelling has always been there and solid.
This one ☝🏽 I believe is the one, after taking a listen 👂🏽 to it. It bridges 🌉 the gap between Hip Hop and Inspirational Storytelling that has been a lost art 🖼️; and much needed for the youth especially; but all of humanity can take from it.
The project positions music as an extension of her narrative voice, allowing for a deeper exploration of personal experiences that may not always be visible on screen or to those who are close in proximity.
This transition reflects a broader trend among multi-hyphenate creatives who are using cross-platform expression to maintain authorship over their stories. So if you need a legend to show you how to use your gifts 🎁 that The Most High instilled in you, she’s it.
🎬 Behind the Scenes
Production for “Favor on My Soul” is already underway, with visuals that align closely with the project’s themes of reflection and transformation.
Being present during the production process offered insight into the intentionality behind the work, from tone and setting to the emotional weight carried within each scene. Even with its simplicity.
The visual direction emphasizes mood and storytelling, reinforcing the project’s central idea: that identity is not fixed, and growth often requires stepping beyond what is expected.
🎭 Themes of Identity and Perception
At its core, Breaking Character explores what it means to evolve in spaces where people may still expect a previous version of you.
The inclusion of both “Favor on My Soul” and “Villain” reflects that dual experience; one rooted in alignment and affirmation, the other in perception and misunderstanding.
This contrast is becoming increasingly relevant in contemporary conversations around personal branding, authenticity and public identity.
📀 What to Expect
The official release date is June 6, and Breaking Character is positioned to offer a cohesive narrative that blends music, visual storytelling and personal reflection with a touch of inspiration of “being yourself”.
As Ta’Rhonda Jones continues to develop the project, audiences can expect a layered exploration of transformation, one that speaks to both individual growth and collective experience.
Here’s some highlights from our recent session:
What inspired the contrast between “Favor on My Soul” and “Villain”? Being that they’re on the same project but totally opposite of each other.
I wanted to show that balance is necessary! For example…..I can be both soft yet firm. SOFT says…. I understand you & FIRM says…. I still choose what’s best for me. It’s alignment because I get to hold both at the same time!
How would you define “breaking character” in your own words?
I choose to be present, I choose to be 100% ME! No more performing, No more people pleasing. I’m no longer who society wants me to be
Did any part of this project challenge you creatively or personally?
Honestly No! I realize Every time I create I discover new found freedom! It feels like a phoenix rising, feels like I unlocked a new level of consciousness
How do you navigate public perception while evolving as an artist?
I don’t navigate….. I’m rooted in who I am, I’m planted in my grandma’s soil…. Therefore the public navigate/follow me (ALL cockiness intended) 😂 I don’t give a damn what these people think!
Communications Generalist | Cultural Strategist | Data & Business Analyst 