On June 14, English singer YUNGBLUD dropped a live version of his newly released single, “Lowlife.” The song came as a surprise to fans, as it explores a genre other than his usual alternative rock/punk sound. With that in mind, I wanted to look at his artistic evolution through the years that lead him to this new hip-hop/rap style. I’ll highlight several of my favorite songs throughout the years and explore their sounds and meanings. Come with me on this journey, and don’t forget your popcorn. You’ll need it for this upcoming bombshell.
The Actor
Before his music career started, Dominic Harrison, or YUNGBLUD, was a Disney Channel actor in the UK. He starred in The Lodge, a British musical drama and mystery series about a girl named Skye and her adjustment from city life to rural life. Harrison acts alongside Bridgerton’s Luke Newton and Descendants 2’s Thomas Doherty. Unfortunately, the show got axed in 2017, and he went on to do better things, such as releasing his first single that year in April. Skipping that song, however, let’s get into how I first discovered him.
“11 Minutes” feat. Halsey and Travis Barker – Feb. 13, 2019
I don’t remember how I found “11 Minutes,” but I’m glad I did. Halsey and YUNGBLUD sound so good together. The lyrics tell the story of two teenagers who break up because of modern society’s emphasis on success versus love. The music video is even more powerful, however. It depicts Halsey in a car accident while YUNGBLUD tries to save her repeatedly, each time going through the five stages of grief. The closer he gets to making it in 11 minutes, the further he gets into the stages. After giving up, he accepts her fate and recalls the good memories instead.
“Weird!” – Dec. 4, 2020
With the protocols for social distancing, 2020 was a weird year. I was sitting in my college apartment with many hand sanitizer bottles next to me when I listened to this. The music video starts with someone asking YUNGBLUD, “If the world was to end tomorrow, what was the one story you would want to be told?” It then starts with this pop-punk sound with a synthesizer dominating the verses. The chorus goes on to turn into a high-energy song to headbang to. It’s one of his tamer songs, but I love imagining myself playing this song with the windows rolled down and hair in my face.
“Parents” Remix feat. Chloe Noone – March 17, 2021
Technically, the original came out in 2019, but we’re putting the remix here for the timeline’s sake. After hearing “11 Minutes,” I wanted to see what other music YUNGBLUD had, and this was the first one that popped up. I love the defiant attitude he brings to the table. This was my rebel phase anthem, especially as someone with self-proclaimed helicopter parents. I always mouthed the “parents ain’t always right” hook because it was catchy. The drum beat keeps it groovy while YUNGBLUD delivers the punk rock sound he’s known for.
“Tissues” – Aug. 30, 2022
“Tissues” dropped a day before my birthday, which was exciting. This song, as well as the next song, showed how versatile YUNGBLUD is in his genres. He dipped his toes into indie pop and came out on the other side. It gets me in a good mood, starkly contrasting his earlier discography. The song is about the various emotions you feel when you’re about to fall in love. It captures the chaotic energy one feels with how fast and upbeat the tempo is. The guitar riff in the chorus is easy to sing along to and makes you want to get up and dance.
Be sure to listen to YUNGBLUD’s new single, “Lowlife” and his other songs mentioned here! I can’t wait to see what genre he tries next. Catch you all on the flip side.
