New Jersey-born singer Halsey released the fourth single to their imminent fifth album, “The Great Impersonator” titled “Ego” on Sept. 6. Diagnosed with lupus and leukemia in 2022, Halsey created this album believing it could be their last. They expanded this idea and concept, adding songs inspired by the 1970s to 2000s. Questioning if she were to debut in these timelines, Halsey played into these factors and completed this conceptual record. Previously released songs for this project consist of “The End,” “Lucky” and “Lonely is the Muse.” The most recent, alternative-influenced song displays Halsey’s vulnerability as she sings about instability.
“Ego” describes the musician’s reflection upon their regression when it comes to behavior and mental fragility. While the verses speak of their emotional tiredness and nightmares of their career ending, upon other melancholic themes, the pre-chorus implies a sense of hope. They express, “I’m hoping that someone comes around / helps me figure it out.” Halsey is aware of their unsteady mindset and longs for change; a connection with someone as they support her.
The chorus, or climax, confesses the artist’s desire to “kill their ego” before their ego “kills” them. They believe acting alright is negatively affecting their mental health, disproving the theory of ‘faking it until you make it.’ In other words, Halsey wants to remove their façade of happiness or stability. Ending the chorus with “I’m really not as happy as I seem,” the singer admits to pretending to be feeling better than they actually were.
This vulnerable track was a great choice as the next single for Halsey’s album. It continues the theme of self-reflection and emphasizes the cohesive direction Halsey’s album will partake in. She draws in the audience with an easy instrumental, holding their appreciation throughout the powerful and up-beat chorus. Complementing the themes of previously released album tracks, “Ego” proves strong enough musicality to stand alone. The passionate song and instrumental only increases hype and intrigue when it comes to the release date of Halsey’s next record, coming out late next month.
4/5 stars
rross1@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @iamhalsey, Instagram
