Singles Round Up: Jan. 29

Singles Round Up – The Arts and Entertainment Department takes a look at some of the recently released singles from the past week.

“I Told You So“ - Briston Maroney

“Freakin’ Out on the Interstate” singer Briston Maroney released his newest indie single, “I Told Yo So,” on Friday marking his first release since his September 2023 album “Ultrapure.”

Unlike his most notable song, “I Told You So” has a softer sound, utilizing Maroney’s naturally higher vocals and acoustic guitar.

This sweet and slow love song has a cinematic element to it that could seamlessly fit into a coming-of-age film, much like the rest of Maroney’s discography. The chorus line, “seems like you knew me before I knew myself,” encapsulates the song's point: how heartwarming it is to grow alongside someone who knows you so well.

Thematically, “I Told You So” circles around a road trip with the one Maroney is singing to which solidifies the metaphor that he’s along for the ride with them. -Megan Kelby

“Sunglasses At Night” - Heidi Klum

Heidi Klum, great person, actress and model, but her singing is another story. Expectations were set for Klum’s cover of “Sunglasses At Midnight,” but sadly, they were not met.

The original song, of the same name, by Corey Hart wasn’t spectacular either, but at least it had a storyline. Klum’s version had no verses and repeated the lines, “I wear my sunglasses at night/So I can, so I can” the entirety of the single.

To visualize “Sunglasses At Night,” think of terrible nightclub music. That’s what it should be equated to.

The vocals sound okay, but there would be no surprise if autotune was used. Klum’s voice was only recognizable because of a few accent slips.

Lastly, a minor complaint, but who wears sunglasses at night? According to the song, it’s so she can, “See the light that's right before my eyes,” “Keep track of the visions in my eyes” and/or “Watch you weave then breathe your storylines.”

Okay.

It’s hard to hate music, but sometimes it’s necessary. For a listen that’s not enjoyable, nor stimulating, go check out Heidi Klum’s cover of “Sunglasses At Night.” -Isabel Sweet

Megan Kelby is a fourth-year majoring in journalism. To contact her, email mkk5701@psu.edu.

Isabel Sweet is a second-year majoring in communications. To contact her, email ips5219@psu.edu.