It's nerve-wracking to attempt a U.S. market entrance with a debut single. The first step could mean years of massive success, but for most, it's a step that unfortunately goes nowhere, forcing the artist to recede back into the shadows. New Zealand native Ben Hazlewood, a contestant on the first season of The Voice Australia, is preparing for that first step by releasing his new single "Wanted", a powerful, alternative pop effort with underlying soul influences.
"Wanted" follows Hazlewood's impressive run on The Voice Australia, becoming the second-to-last member of Joel Madden's team, and his delicate, rock-inspired "Paint Me Black" collaboration with former team member Mali Koa Hood. The new release better highlights the strength of the artist's intriguing and captivating vocals, as he shares details of a love he is putting his all into, just to never get the same response in return. There's a sense of optimism and pain, as the realization of its end becomes clear.
Besides a solid vocal performance, the dramatic, dark encompassing production is a standout element of the track, creating a moody and passionate backdrop for the narrative songwriting. "I see from my eye line, your skies are not kind, we're going under and I've lost my mind, there's something in my bones and I can't let you go, there's burning inside like I've never known," Hazlewood sings with utmost conviction as he tries to convey the mix of emotions flowing through him.
"[It] is a song about unrequited love and the angst and frustration, the desperation that comes with it," the independent artist says of "Wanted". "It's a powerful plea to the person you feel more for than you have ever felt before. The last cry for a change that you anticipate may never come."
With a distinctive voice, one that instantly stands out from the crowded scene, Hazlewood allows "Wanted" to form a connection with the listener, whether it be hopeful or depressing. His story of refusing to let go or give up is relatable, carried by a memorable, powerful chorus and an intriguing blend of rock, soul and gospel inspirations. Without the need for explicit language or crude suggestions, the artist effortlessly seduces with a heartfelt plea for romance. If his love interest wasn't paying attention before, they will now.
Hazlewood has enough experience in the music industry to know what should work for a debut artist. With equal focus on show-stopping vocal performances and engaging supporting production, "Wanted" is the perfect introduction to the artist, with his first album set for an early 2016 release. The new single may not follow the upbeat, radio-ready trends of the moment, but it doesn't need to. The singer-songwriter vibe and personal touch makes Hazlewood one to watch in the coming months.
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