Review: "Turtleneck" - Maddie Regent
- Alexa LaMalfa
- Feb 21
- 3 min read
Memories are tied to relationships just like a thread is to a sweater. If the thread starts to pull and then starts to unravel, the sweater is damaged and it’s not the same as when you bought it. The same could be said about relationships, when the second the good memories turn into bad ones, the relationship will never be the same. “Turtleneck” by Maddie Regent uses the metaphor of a turtleneck sweater to describe a bittersweet reflection on a past relationship.
One of the most creative metaphors in the song is about an Etch A Sketch. Maddie sings about drawing her ex’s face and how she wishes she could “copy and paste” the small intricate details she used to know so well. She’s holding on to their memories and drawing them is almost like reliving them or keeping them stored in her mind, but when she goes to “shake, shake, erase” she’s wiping them away and taking the first step to letting the relationship go. It’s a great way to compare the complex mixed feelings that occur when you’re heartbroken. We learn in the chorus that the actual turtleneck was a symbol for their connection. Through the imagery of the turtleneck, we learn that their relationship was comfortable and intimate. Maddie also sings about passing through the planets and says she’s “way out here in outer space” which could symbolize distance and isolation. Assuming he’s on earth, by traveling to outer space she’s going on a solo journey where the different planets she visits can represent overlooking a different stage in their relationship. When a relationship is truly over, it’s hard to fully let go for good. Maddie expresses the desire to let go while simultaneously wanting to relive certain moments again through these lyrics.
“Turtleneck” by Maddie Regent is a perfect description of the cycle of love, heartbreak, and every emotion in between. Produced by Cade Hoppe and Harper James, this song combines beautiful acoustic elements with powerful and vulnerable lyrics. This track is powered by the guitar. The vibe that this song gives off is almost whimsical, and I think it’s partially because of Maddie’s soft voice and through the instrumentation. While listening, it’s just clear that this song was produced very well because all elements of the track flow together seamlessly and complement each other very well. I love Maddie’s voice, especially during the bridge because you can hear her emotion get more intense and the music matches it. This song is so good it’s so easy to keep it on repeat and not get tired of it.
Maddie Regent is a singer-songwriter originally from Toronto, Canada, but is now based in New York City. Maddie grew up as a musician and started making music at just twelve years old. Music became her superpower, and truly gave her an outlet to express herself and explore her creativity. Maddie released her debut EP “MISS REGENT” in October of 2021. That EP was produced by the Grammy-nominated songwriting-production trio LIONCHILD, who has worked with Britney Spears, Bebe Rexha, and Calvin Harris. Her single “EGO” was a smashing success and even produced some viral Tik Tok moments. The song currently has over one million streams on Spotify. Maddie is definitely an artist to watch and her album “On the phone with my mom” is set to drop this spring. Check out “Turtleneck” and give it a listen!
Written By Alexa LaMalfa
FOLLOW MADDIE REGENT: