Spotify page for “nobody cares”
The Xavierite
Witnessing the rise of the next big pop star is a goal every music fan wants to achieve. With the release of her first EP, “nobody cares,” on Feb. 19, 2026, I believe Natalie Jinju has cemented herself as the next it-girl of pop.
I first discovered Jinju in late 2024, following the release of her first album, “Last September,” and have been hooked ever since. Jinju used the album as her college application and was catapulted into the spotlight, gaining a record deal with Capitol Records alongside her acceptance letter.
She accomplished these feats, which many spend their whole lives working towards, as just a senior in high school and has consistently released music since.
Her new EP features five tracks with a total runtime of 17 minutes. Two of which (reminisce and buttons) were released as singles in 2025, while the title track (nobody cares) was released as a single weeks before the EP.
Jinju’s style reminds me of musicians like Laufey, Norah Jones, and Beabadoobee—all people she has credited as inspirations. Relatable lyrics, jazz/alternative-esque instrumentation, and soulful ballads have all situated her as a similar musician to those aforementioned artists.
What differentiates this EP from others in the genre for me is the vulnerability Jinju showcases in her tracks. Every track provides a look into Jinju’s love life, and each is shrouded with her own experiences.
This is seen most evidently on the second track: “buttons.” Diving into a side of relationships many try to avoid(disagreements), Jinju lists ways her significant other pushes her buttons.
While the situations mentioned can be construed as negative aspects, Jinju instead emphasizes: “Yeah you push my buttons/but you push ‘em just right.” This signifies how interactions traditionally seen as relationship-ending can instead bring two individuals closer.
Another area that sets Jinju apart is her role as an active student. Jinju will often incorporate her peers from the University of Southern California into her songs.
This is seen in “buttons,” which features a band made up of her peers. Instead of opting for the best of the best, Jinju remains with those close to her, a trait which seems to have been lost in the ever-growing wave of music.
Along with “buttons,” every other track is beautifully crafted and showcases Jinju’s talents.
“letters to my lover” features uplifting guitar tracks and jazz-like piano fills along with a ravishing harmonization of Jinju and other background singers.
“calico” starts with a classic alternative guitar track paired with a light piano in the background. Combining these with Jinju’s mellow style transforms this song into a soothing and cozy experience.
“reminisce” is my favorite of the EP and reminds me of pop songs from my youth. Drum and guitar tracks that keep your head bopping the entire time mixed with Jinju’s range and catchy lyrics made this a song I didn’t want to end.
Lastly, “nobody cares” comes off as a message to those who tried to put Jinju down. With more pop-focused instrumentation–synthesizers and electric guitars–the track elevates into a joyous moment where Jinju proves her doubters wrong and ensures that “Nobody Cares” what they think.
I have no doubt that Natalie Jinju will become a household name in the next few years. Her releases thus far have proved her talents and “nobody cares” served to further solidify herself as a name to look out for.
“nobody cares” is streaming now on Spotify and all other platforms.