Alternative singer-songwriter Jax Turcotte has released his debut single, “Sincerely, Once Beloved,” an intimate yet expansive ballad written as a farewell to guilt, grief, and everything that no longer serves him. Blending vulnerable lyricism with stripped-down instrumentation and a voice that sounds like both a whisper and a declaration, Turcotte is carving out a lane all his own—equal parts Phoebe Bridgers, Radiohead, and the emotional resonance of early 2000s indie rock.
The single is released via The Singer’s Company and marks a bold new chapter for the 18-year-old artist. Written during his final year of high school, “Sincerely, Once Beloved” started as a personal journal entry—an outlet for processing change, confidence, and clarity. It quickly became something more. “This team’s belief in me promoted my confidence and growth as a musician,” says Turcotte. “Their expertise greatly aided me in creating a fully-fledged record from what was a journal entry.”
“Sincerely, Once Beloved” was written as a “sign off” to all of the negativity I had been allowing to affect me: others’ opinions, self-doubt, guilt,” Turcotte explains. “It’s the clarity that comes with recovering from hard times in your life.”
Produced by Roy Hamilton III and Matt Fasullo, with additional mixing by Joe Carolus and mastering by Noah Mintz (Broken Social Scene, The Constantines), the single showcases Turcotte’s artistry and multi-instrumental talent. He performs guitar, vocals, hand percussion, and more on the track.
Lyrically, it’s a poetic burn letter—and a love letter to oneself. “It’s a letter I wished I had sent to myself and to anyone who has ever willfully misunderstood me,” says Turcotte. That authenticity rings out in the refrain:
“Sincerely, a dreamer / Sincerely, a lover / Sincerely, a mourning dove / Sincerely, once beloved”
Listen on YouTube here:
Turcotte’s gift is in transforming deeply personal thoughts into universal truths. The imagery is raw, but never bitter—there’s grace in his vulnerability. It’s the kind of songwriting that meets listeners exactly where they are, whether they’re in the middle of healing or finally stepping out of the fog. The track balances emotional catharsis with melodic restraint, showcasing a young artist with an old soul and a sharp sense of self.
Raised in Toronto, Jax’s musical upbringing included everything from James Blake and Florence Welch to Sufjan Stevens and Brandi Carlile. But “Sincerely, Once Beloved” is no imitation—it’s an arrival. With this track, Turcotte introduces himself not as an echo of his influences, but as a distinct voice within the new generation of emotionally intelligent singer-songwriters. His classical training, combined with a natural gift for lyricism, gives his music both weight and warmth.
The song has already begun to connect with fans who describe it as “a mirror” and “a hug disguised as a heartbreak.” Whether played through headphones on a rainy walk or through speakers at the end of a long day, “Sincerely, Once Beloved” feels less like a debut and more like a companion.
Turcotte’s goal remains refreshingly clear: “The goal has always been to express myself in a way that feels authentic. If someone connects with it, and I’ve made even the smallest difference—then I’ve done what I came here to do.”
With more music and live performances on the way, “Sincerely, Once Beloved” is a debut, sure, and also an invitation into Jax Turcotte’s world.