Rell Owns Past Mistakes As He Returns Directly To Fans

Rell explained why he left music for nearly a decade in a November 3 A&RFactory interview, describing setbacks and his mistakes.

The Southern California R&B singer, whose full name is Jarell Gaines, announced a November 4 return with “I’ll Be There.” He wrote, performed and produced the single himself and chose to sell it through his own online store.

“I got tired of losing,” he said. “I lost focus. I made poor decisions.”

He acknowledged damaging relationships and taking supporters for granted. He also described working at several churches almost six days a week while juggling production and live music. He had built several studios, including one in his family’s home, but said none became the space he had envisioned.

After stepping away from recording and performing, he worked as a behavioral technician, loaded warehouses and drove box trucks. His wife kept encouraging him to try music again. He recalled believing he was too old to come back.

“But my wife refused to let the dream die,” Rell said.

The interview also traced his work on “I’ll Be There”: he revised the verses and delivery while keeping the hook. He connected the song to accountability, relationships and his faith.

That wider meaning followed a change in the song’s direction. The release announcement described a track that began as a love ballad and grew into a reflection on being present for family and faith. According to the announcement, acoustic guitar and vocal harmonies sit alongside a Hip-Hop rhythm.

Based in California’s Inland Empire, Rell founded Jachord Studios. His official biography identifies creative ownership and artist development as parts of his work.

He said AI tools should treat human creators fairly, with particular concern for Black creators.

His return also offers a different way to reach listeners: the release plan sends buyers to his official store instead of traditional distribution platforms. The release announcement described plans to use Jachord Studios to build resources and collaboration opportunities for other independent artists.

The Payhip listing sets a $1.99 minimum, with buyers able to contribute more. The purchase provides a mastered MP3 for personal listening, with permanent access to the file. Buyers do not receive resale, sampling or commercial rights.