Greetings, reader!

i-wave exists to shine a light on the queer artists moving the web3 space forward in innovative ways — to write it down and make sure the world takes note, pays attention, and doesn’t forget. Jamee Cornelia has graced these pages with their greatness before, but when I saw them take over sound with their album and all that goes with this revolutionary rollout, I knew it was time for another ‘big moves’ piece!

On Art School Dropout, Cornelia takes us along for the ride that is their creative career. Album opener “Lied on My Resume” finds our hero reflecting on the winding path they followed to this moment, which flows naturally into “Routine,” where we get a breakdown of their daily keys to success. From there, we explore a range of topics, from creating balance in all things (“Feng Shui”) to more angsty, rock moments, which are some of my faves (“City Full of Stars” and “rock”). We even get a quick rumination on AI. Overall, the album is a fascinating and well-rounded portrait of an artist just beginning to scratch the surface of their vast creative potential in all things. It’s also a shining moment for one of web3 music’s brightest stars, and one felt especially by the queer community.

Besides the music, we have the (very web3) *event* that is Art School Dropout. A visual PFP project, a mention on NPR, and the front page on Bandcamp; top it off with a virtual takeover of the sound.xyz homepage with 50 editions of each song available. Cornelia is everywhere, and that is exactly how they planned it.

Will all of these editions sell? Does it matter? This rollout is already a success in its vastness, precision, and of course, its quality music at the center.

Artists, take notes — we’re being blessed with a MasterClass on web3 greatness. And cheers to you, Jamee — thank you for blazing so many trails.

xo C