Kayla Stewart’s debut single “Second Guess” is an anthem of post-breakup clarity. The lyrics paint pictures for listeners of what the speaker felt before and what she feels now, with a back-and-forth pattern of revelation. The song shows that “looking at the sunny side” of a relationship does not make the weight of the heavy parts of it disappear. Taking us to a specific place and associated moment, the verses begin with a cinematic slice-of-life quality. “Queen St. 9 days, no cigarettes” is a narrative phrase that makes listeners think of withdrawal without saying the word itself. It brings about thoughts like sometimes relationships are like nicotine: an addictive vice. In a bold and overt message to the former partner, the chorus shows how the speaker is disillusioned. It lists the different and unfair roles that the speaker now refuses to take on for that person.
Kayla’s expressive, feminine vocals open the song with a slow and somber delivery of the chorus, before gaining a higher and narrative sound in the verse. Vocal layering near the end of the verse gives the words a resonant sound. As the chorus repeats, the instrumentals gain more clear-cut electric guitar as some of the electronic instrumentals dissolve. Upbeat drums bring the song a progressive energy, keeping a rhythmic consistency throughout. There’s a heartbreaking resolution in the way the vocals soar, professing the speaker’s message with a feeling of raw freedom. This is such a comforting pop song to play after a breakup because the sound doesn’t cover up the pain it represents, but it uses the suffering to invigorate the power that comes from saying goodbye.
Kayla Stewart is a Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter who grew up in the Midwest. Her early musical influence came from her guitarist grandfather, who played alongside artists like Dolly Parton and Bobby Day. Kayla aims to bring a personal and emotive lyricism to her songs. “Second Guess” is her debut song, and her second single, “Weather Well” is close behind. She starred in her debut song's music video, with French film influences in style and an emotional portrayal that encapsulates the lyrics. You can find more about her and look out for her upcoming release by following the links below.
Written By Hanna Kowal
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