Rotterdam-born singer-songwriter William Locks has always carried a talent for turning vulnerability into strength, but his new single “Better Off Alone” marks a defining moment in his artistic journey. The track captures a universal emotional crossroads the moment you admit that staying might hurt more than walking away.
Rooted in a blend of soul, modern pop, and quiet melancholy, “Better Off Alone” doesn’t pretend life is neat or romantic. Instead, William leans into the uncomfortable truth: sometimes choosing solitude isn’t sadness, it’s survival. “Maybe choosing to be lonely is easier than choosing hell,” he reflects, a line that lingers long after the song fades. This raw, unfiltered perspective gives the single its emotional punch, separating it from the glossy breakup anthems filling the mainstream.
The story behind “Better Off Alone” is as honest as the track itself. William admits the inspiration came from a simple but painful realization: falling in love is risky, and sometimes avoiding heartbreak becomes the safer choice. After creating a demo and sharing it with friends, their collective response was clear: the song needed to be released. Not because it’s polished or comforting, but because it’s real.
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| William Locks Confronts Truth and Solitude with Poignant Honesty on “Better Off Alone” |
The production journey behind the single spans continents, with instrumental recordings taking place in England and Nigeria. William collaborated with two close producer friends, seasoned creators who have contributed to numerous projects, even if not tied to major-name credits. Their shared focus was authenticity over perfection, crafting a track that feels intimate yet universally relatable.
What makes “Better Off Alone” particularly significant is how it challenges the “everything is fine” illusion often found in pop music. William embraces flawed emotion, the doubt, the fear, the quiet acceptance that things aren’t okay. In doing so, he creates a soundtrack for people caught between hope and self-preservation. It’s not a song of defeat; it’s a song of choosing yourself, even when the choice stings.
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| William Locks Confronts Truth and Solitude with Poignant Honesty on “Better Off Alone” |
As the global indie landscape continues to welcome more introspective storytellers, William Locks stands out with his grounded songwriting and soulful delivery. His music isn’t built on escapis, but it’s built on truth. And “Better Off Alone” adds another compelling layer to his growing catalog, reinforcing why he’s quickly becoming a standout voice from the Netherlands. For anyone navigating heartbreak, uncertainty, or the courage to step away, William’s latest release offers both companionship and clarity, a reminder that sometimes walking alone is the first step toward healing.