Pop singer and songwriter Olivia O’Brien’s music has grown tremendously throughout her career, and with every written song, there has always been loads of emotion that is not only relatable for the artist but also young adults. O’Brien’s music primarily shines a spotlight on heartbreaks, cheating, and self-love. These themes are common among young adults who are experiencing young love, and listening to relatable tunes can often help cope with these struggles. 

While many of O’Brien’s releases hold a focal point on the previous subjects of love, her new song “Better Than Feeling Lonely” managed to make me feel bitter and nonchalant about receiving good or bad love. The message the song holds may not be marvelous to follow, but the tune holds many emotions that the singer portrays. The feelings that are portrayed throughout the song, and the singer’s voice, hold heartache and question on rather or not fake love is better than feeling lonely. 

Even though O’Briens previous hit songs “Josslyn” and “RIP” were about bouncing back from a relationship and feeling no regret, I can say that she does a better job of displaying those feelings rather than sorrowful ones as it is more enjoyable to listen to. In addition to these tracks, one of O’Brien’s hits “Love Myself” also makes for yet another beautiful piece, possibly one of her best, and it is my personal favorite as this song repeats that O’Brien must love herself before she loves anyone else. Overall, when pop songs give off cheerful energy, it is more enjoyable to listen to.

Comparing “Better Than Feeling Lonely” to O’Briens other top hits, I had high hopes for this one; however, the subject matter of the song was not expected and does not fit the criteria for her. Even though it was not what I had in mind, I was able to connect with the lyrics. 

Throughout the settled melody, I can tell that O’Brien misses the presence of her anonymous significant other and hates the fact that she does. She knows that going back to her past with this nameless person is probably not for the best. O’Brien vocalizes this by saying, “Hate to say it, it’s true, but I can’t get you off my mind.” And while it seems she tries to convince herself not to go back, it is noticeable that she can’t seem to help herself and only wants him. 

During the next few stanzas, O’Brien gives examples of how careless she is and shows that with the emotions she is holding in by saying, “Tell me I’m the only, even if you don’t mean It,” and, “Maybe fake love is better than feeling lonely,” implying that she is in a state of loneliness and may even be lost within herself. Even though O’Brien is known for showing a confident outlook, these lyrics present otherwise.

O’Brien wishes that she “could be someone who does everything right” but feels that it is not exciting to do so and would rather choose a good time over a good thing. She knows that she still has a little more time to not take her life as seriously and takes full advantage with a careless attitude. O’Brien is aware of the fact that she does not show any affliction by vocalizing, “So call me a psycho, and maybe you’re right, but I love it,” and also saying, “I don’t care if I get hurt, I’m fine,” and she continues with that mindset. 

Although this piece was far from what I expected it to be, the melody was elegant and held the same tune the whole time; the lyrics were often repetitive, and I was hoping for more. O’Brien’s songs in the past have always held some kind of vibe that is hard to ignore, yet this one was unlucky. Even though the outcome may not have been what I was expecting, I hope that the next release will hold more of a fascinating beat and storyline.