To some degree, we have all experienced pain, loneliness and the feeling of not fitting into the world. At some point, you’re left feeling empty and even hopeless. You have to hear words of encouragement for your own judgments and agony to disappear. Singer-songwriter and Why Don’t We alum Jonah Marais makes sure your words can be heard on his latest single “Better Place.”
Despite the hurt wavering in Marais’ voice, his vocal delivery shines against the backdrop of upbeat piano and drums. It’s raw and real, and with the choir-like aura that peers through the surface throughout much of the song, you can feel his struggles fully. Marais offers his ear to those hurting because he realizes how painful it is to be different and feel like — whether he’s felt it that deeply or not. To make his listener feel understood, he sings, “I know you got a story / I know you’re in pain / If I could, I would, I’d make this world a better place.”
The song is centered around mental health and the importance of reaching out for support, with Marais saying:
“This song is for anyone who’s ever felt lost, alone, or misunderstood. It’s a reminder that your story matters, your pain is real, and you don’t have to carry it alone. No matter what you’re going through, there’s love and support waiting for you – just reach out.”
While he tries to emphasize that he wishes he could make the world a better place, he knows that he cannot change everything but still remains that shoulder to cry on (“Even when you feel broken, could share the weight / If you promise me that you’ll just reach out”). Months after choosing to “Slow Things” down and hit pause on everything, nothing is ever as easy as it seems on “Better Place.” Still, Marais ensures listeners that even if you don’t believe it or can’t see it, he’s there for you anyway.
Keep up with Jonah Marais: Instagram // Spotify // X // YouTube // Facebook // TikTok
