Addison Rae has released a new song called “Headphones On.” I am, in fact, wearing headphones, Addison—and I’m ready.

The track opens with an orchestral swell layered over the sounds of passing vehicles. Then, after a sudden break from that noisy soundscape, we drop into a dreamy, 2000s R&B-inspired beat filled with lush textures. There’s a warm drone humming beneath everything—probably coming from some kind of digital organ—and the track is rich with layered vocal harmonies.

On the screen, I see Addison alongside a pink horse. Her nails are painted in what looks like the Icelandic flag, and I have a strong feeling this was shot in Iceland. Who else is from Iceland? Björk. Does this sound like Björk? A little bit. And honestly—who doesn’t love Björk?

I was genuinely and pleasantly surprised by this song. When I pressed play, it swept me away completely. It’s like taking a trip back to the early 2000s—but then launching far forward into a future that’s way beyond 2025. That might sound a bit confusing. Let’s put it this way: if I were a painter, I’d want to paint this song. If I were a dancer, I’d choreograph something just for it. The whole soundscape is simply a really cool place to spend time.

Some songs can take you to terrible places—you hear them and immediately want to turn them off. This song, though? It takes you somewhere beautiful.

It’s hard to put into words exactly how this song makes me feel. I like it, but it’s not a clear emotion—it's not happy, sad, nostalgic, or anything neatly labeled. If I had to describe it, I’d call it “happily numb.” When I listen to “Headphones On,” it feels like I can’t quite hear my own thoughts—no more than I can fully hear the song. They just float together, comfortably.

Anyway, this turned into a bit of a fuzzy write-up, but the song was really inspiring. You should give it a listen and decide for yourself—could this song push pop music into new territory? I hope it does. I’d be genuinely happy to see that happen.

Author: Peter Källman

Peter Källman is a writer from Sweden who loves playing in bands, writing reviews and going to live shows!