Jon Bellion, Father Figure | Wacky Wednesday

In the 26th edition of Wacky Wednesday (2025), we break down the unique “Father Figure,” performed by Jon Bellion.

Do you know what day it is? It is Wednesday, folks! Do you know what that means? Why, it is Wacky Wednesday! In the spirited column Wacky Wednesday, we analyze, break down, and explore songs from various musicians of various genres that can be considered unique, unusual, or ‘wacky.’  These songs can be new or old; the only requirement is that they ‘catch the ears’ because of their distinctiveness.  With the background established, in the 26^th edition of Wacky Wednesday (2025), we break down the unique “Father Figure”, performed by Jon Bellion. Wacky Wednesday vibes commence!

“Lord / Lord / F-father figure, known to protect / I do that shit forever” Word. In 2025, our beloved, Jon Bellion (Jonathan Bellion), with his first album in seven years, the self-funded Father Figure. Among the standout tracks is the fatherly “Father Figure”, which Bellion co-wrote with Dougie F (Douglas Ford), Aldae, Elkan, Pete Nappi, and Thom Bridges. Bellion produced it with Nappi, Bridges, and Elkan.  Like many Jon Bellion songs, “Father Figure” is complex and utterly distinct, and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

The musical backdrop is impressive – the expected from a JB joint. There are unique, rhythmic vocal loops that appear consistently, a banging, East Coast, dusty hip-hop beat, and sweet, timely piano chords that occasionally enter the mix. In the music video, Bellion cues the keys, which is hella cool.  Not only does the instrumental catch the ears by kicking ass and taking names, so does Bellion’s performance and the songwriting.  Alternative pop and rap to the nth degree, Jon gives us plenty to digest.  The intro and post-chorus (excerpted earlier) are spoken word. Bellion has a swagger about him, or maybe it’s that potent s-bomb.  Bellion sings the chorus, the centerpiece and most prevalent recurring section.  “I am no saint, I am no saint, it’s true / But I’ll be okay if I’m half the man as you,” he asserts, continuing, “These boys will make it through / I’ll follow after you.” Jon pays tribute to his father, admitting he’s imperfect, but if he follows the lessons he learned from his dad, he can pass them on to his children. But it goes deeper.

In the pre-chorus of sorts (or its own section?), Bellion confounds a bit: “Big Ferrari, you look so sick inside your big Ferrari.” Huh? Jon clarifies that he is speaking about being trapped in the addiction to accomplishment. In the ‘key verse,’ he expounds on this toxicity, melodically rapping, “All these horses, but where your carriage at? / All these crosses, but where your marriage at / For the lettuce / You took a flamethrower to the cabbage patch.” Woo! Before the return of the pre-chorus, he asserts, “Standing ovations, you built a coffin / And that shit looks just like a…” Big Ferrari, of course! What I admire most about Jon Bellion is his uniqueness as an artist, producer, and songwriter.  He has a distinct style and always stands out from the crowd.  “Father Figure” is one-of-a-kind, which is truly refreshing.