Hailing from Texas and going viral on TikTok for his monumental covers, rising alt-pop R&B singer Bryant Barnes delivers intimate sonic world-building in his newest single, “Is This Love To You.”
The multi-instrumentalist crafts enchanting melodies between delicate piano and theatrical strings beyond a careful drum beat. This beautiful production shines in parallel to Barnes’ effortlessly tender vocals and occasional falsetto. The singer-songwriter taps into his extensive musical training from classical piano to cello to build this musically eclectic yet cohesive track. Barnes captures sounds similar to Joji or Giveon, with attention to detail from artists like Shiloh Dynasty and Sarah Kinsley.
“Is This Love To You” is a delicate contemplation on a difficult relationship, reflecting on the hardships they faced in the past. Barnes sings, “I can’t imagine us ten years from now,” as he considers the incompatible dynamics between him and his ex-partner. Barnes grapples with unreciprocated feelings as he questions, “is my heart not enough to keep you right next to me?”
Throughout this song, the singer pleads for closure as he questions the sincerity of the relationship with lines like, “why am I still in love hoping to be the one you need?” He even notes no longer recognizing this person for who they once were, doubting his position in the relationship: “How did you become so heartless so soon?”
Barnes comes to the conclusion that he “can never ask for something more” given the way he was treated in this relationship.
With genre-bending sound, heartfelt melodies, delicate vocals, and vulnerable, introspective lyrics, Bryant Barnes stands out on all fronts in his newest single, “Is This Love To You.” Barnes is bringing his musical talents to life on his headlining tour this November, so be sure to check him out live.
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