First Take: Liam Payne – Teardrops

A subtle but striking shift...

Liam Payne is back with his much-anticipated new single ‘Teardrops’. 

After a three-year wait fans can finally immerse themselves in his soulful new release. Collaborating with the likes of Jamie Scott and JC Chasez of N*SYNC, the singer-songwriter explores the battles of navigating a relationship amidst times of disharmony and brokenness. The lyrics “Teardrops are falling down your face again, cause I don’t know how to love you when I am broken too” alludes to heartbreak and desperation as one tries to fix mistakes in a struggling romance.

During the writing process the former One Direction star shared raw footage to his TikTok page where he was seen breaking down in tears. “There were definitely a lot of teardrops shed in making these records and for the first time you really get a picture of what it was like for me each day of making this record” he said with his head in his hands. 

The song showcases strong vocals throughout with changing tones and harmonies amplifying the authenticity of the record. The catchy lyrics can resonate with listeners going through similar emotions and pain. The release has a more intimate feeling to previous tracks in his first solo album and shows a more vulnerable side to his songwriting. The memorable chorus captivates his audience as it echoes the opening line. The 30-year-old embraces a pop R&B style in the ballad with electronic beats adding a powerful rhythm. 

The record is a promising start to the album and I’m sure fans can be excited to what Liam has in-store for the rest of his music. The single shows a subtle change in direction which will speak to people far beyond his original fanbase. Polished and defined, Liam Payne is truly developing his solo voice, while maturing as a songwriting.

8/10

Words: Hannah Sinclair

Photo Credit: Kenneth Cappello

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