Hayley Williams Shares 2nd Solo Single, “Leave It Alone”
Following “Simmer” and “Simmer Interlude,” Hayley Williams is already back with her next single, “Leave It Alone.” The song continues in the direction of “Simmer,” while the music video picks up where the previous two left off. Hayley is gearing up to release her first solo album, Petals For Armor, on May 8th.
Hayley co-wrote “Leave It Alone” with Joey Howard (Paramore’s touring bassist); Taylor York produced the song. The song builds up a low-key backdrop, bass guitar and sighing cello complementing Hayley’s soft vocals. She sings about a loved one who’s dying. In the first verse, Hayley intones, “Now that I finally want to live, the ones I love are dying.” Later, she warns, “If you know love / Best prepare to grieve.” It’s a serious and strangely calming song, even with its dark themes and music.
The song’s new music video, directed by Warren Fu, follows the story started in “Simmer” and advanced in “Simmer Interlude.” The last video showed the two Hayleys wrapped up together in a throbbing cocoon. In “Leave It Alone,” out of that cocoon emerges a new version of Hayley, one that is covered in feather-like flower petals and growing scaly hands. Meanwhile, we watch as a cloaked Hayley walks through the forest, looking into a glowing tree to see a darker scene. It seems to be building up for something more, meaning another video and song will likely come soon.
Watch the music video for “Leave It Alone” below:
You can stream or download “Leave It Alone” from all the major music providers here. This song, along with “Simmer,” will appear on Hayley’s upcoming debut solo album, Petals For Armor, out May 8th.
Going Solo
Coinciding with the release of “Simmer” last week, Hayley also appeared on Radio 1’s Future Sound with Annie Mac. They discussed her decision to go solo, what inspired “Simmer,” what to expect in 2020, and the future of Paramore.
It’s no secret that After Laughter was borne out of a difficult time in Hayley’s life. But, following that album cycle, Hayley experienced a sort of “emotional whiplash” as things quieted down. Her turmoil began creeping up, leading her to do a lot of intensive therapy. It was suggested she get back to writing to get those feelings out.
Although it wasn’t meant to be anything specific, after writing around 4-5 songs, Hayley realized it might be developing into a body of work. Taylor York suggested Hayley talk to their manager about perhaps doing a solo album.
Touring & Paramore’s Future
Hayley confirmed that she will tour for her solo album. She didn’t give details on where or when, but she did say that, although it won’t be a Paramore concert, she will have many of her same crew members with her. She admitted she’s afraid to tour without Paramore, but also excited.
Hayley also confirmed that Paramore is not over. They will make music together again, though it probably won’t sound like her forthcoming solo material. In any case, Hayley indicated that this solo album is an important step that will only help the band grow.
Petals For Armor
“Leave It Alone,” “Simmer,” and “Simmer Interlude” are our first tastes of Hayley’s upcoming debut solo album. She’s still in the studio working on music, but Petals For Armor will be available on May 8th! After that, fans can see her on tour.
What do you think of “Leave It Alone” and its music video? How do you think the story will continue in future music videos? Let us know!
Enjoy “Leave It Alone” and its music video, and stay tuned for more news on Petals For Armor – including tracklisting and cover art. Keep checking back here for all the latest Hayley Williams music news.
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