BANKS ON THE RIVER. Jerrika Mighelle's newest music video reflects on her grief and growth after her mother's death. (Submitted photos)
Eau Claire-based musician Jerrika Christianson – known for her solo project Jerrika Mighelle – premiered a soothing new music video on Sept. 18 that was recently named song of the week by Country Queer – a national magazine that amplifies country and Americana musicians who identify as LGBTQ+.
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I Feel So present now.
And goddamn, now is the only place we ever are; it is the only place a vibrant, beautiful, and free life can exist. I don't want to lose that ever again.
The music video for her song “Banks on the River” explores the loss of her mother, and made its debut to the public on Sept. 27. Its lyrics are haunting – particularly for those who are deeply familiar with emotions of grief from loss: “Now / That you’re gone / How do I / Carry on?" she questions in the song, rowing in a boat or wandering somewhat listlessly through nature. “Looking for a sign / Tells me you / Will be just fine / Hoping that you knew / Before you left / How much I love you.”
The video was filmed about a year ago with friends at nearby Lake Wissota – a “natural, intimate, autumnal setting that lends itself well to the earthy track,” writes Country Queer. The video was created by Erik Elstran and Sarah Elstran (of The Nunnery) – an “unstoppable force,” Christianson says – who also filmed her music video for “Brightest Star.” The video offers viewers a deeply personal glimpse at her experience with grief that feels equal parts electrifying and cinematic, with artistic flair throughout the entire four minute and 22 second-long video.
Ultimately, the natural and autumnal scenery in her video reminds viewers of not only grief, but growth – something that the musician feels is integral to her human journey.
“I feel so present now,” she wrote on Facebook on Aug. 3 – her birthday. “And goddamn, now is the only place we ever are; it is the only place a vibrant, beautiful, and free life can exist. I don't want to lose that ever again.”
The song is part of Christianson’s seven-track, second album, Brightest Star, which was released in late February. You can find her music on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming services, as well as at her website, jerrikamighelle.com.
