“Be Alone” by Madeline Rhodes is not merely a song; it’s a journey into the depths of solitude, crafted during a period of self-imposed quarantine. This introspective piece, produced by the illustrious Brett Shaw at 123 Studios in Peckham, emerges as a sonic masterpiece, merging Rhodes’ emotive voice with crisp instrumentation to narrate a poignant tale.
Madeline Rhodes, the artist whose journey from the stages of Broadway to the viral landscape of YouTube with her feminist anthem “Free the Nip”, has returned to her roots with her latest single, “Be Alone”. This pivot towards vulnerability and introspection marks a remarkable exploration into the intricacies of self and societal labels for Rhodes, whose background story shapes much of her creative output. As a precursor to her forthcoming full-length album set for release in 2024, “Be Alone” signifies more than just a musical interlude – it’s a testament to Rhodes’ commitment to using her art as a conduit for shared human experiences.
“Be Alone” emerges as a somber reflection during a period of self-imposed quarantine, initially a result of necessity that evolved into an exploration of solitude. Produced by the illustrious Brett Shaw at 123 Studios in Peckham, renowned for his work with acts like Florence + the Machine and Foals, the single promises a sonic masterpiece. Crisp instrumentation combines with Rhodes’ emotive voice to narrate her poignant tale.
Beginning with a haunting melody that sets the tone of introspection, Rhodes’ vocal prowess is apparent from the outset. She deftly navigates through the landscape of her emotions, her voice serving as both narrator and participant in the story she tells. The musicality mirrors the lyrical dichotomy of the desire and fear of being alone, with ebbing and flowing dynamics accentuating this push-and-pull sensation.
Lyrically, “Be Alone” delves into the heart of what many have felt but few have expressed. Lines like “I’m scared to be… I think I need to be… I know I shouldn’t be… I’ve got to be alone” speak volumes about the human condition – our desperate need for connection grappling with our equally strong yearning for personal space and identity. Rhodes doesn’t resolve this conflict but lays it bare for all to see, making the song an anthem for anyone grappling with the nuances of self-care versus self-isolation.
“Be Alone” isn’t just a song; it’s a poignant glimpse into the complexities of mental health struggles. Recorded with London-based producer Brett Shaw, known for his work with acclaimed acts like Florence + the Machine and Foals, the track boasts a rich sonic landscape that is both atmospheric and introspective. From the opening notes, Rhodes draws listeners in with her vocal-forward approach and poignant lyricism, resonating with a profound sense of longing and introspection.
As Rhodes continues to explore themes of mental health and introspection, she solidifies herself as a formidable talent with a unique and resonant voice in the music industry. “Be Alone” serves as a captivating preview of what’s to come from this promising artist. So, while we eagerly await the release of her full-length album, go ahead and listen to “Be Alone” – it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
