Song Review: Halsey Vents Frustration at Lover's Shortcomings on "you should be sad" Single

   American singer-songwriter Halsey burst onto the music scene with the release of her alternative pop debut album BADLANDS in 2015. Since then, and with the help of the immensely successful “Closer” collaboration with The Chainsmokers, the artist has earned herself a string of critically-acclaimed and commercially-rewarding follow-up efforts.

   Sophomore album hopeless fountain kingdom became her first number one on the Billboard 200 in 2017, featuring more “radio friendly” efforts such as top five hit “Bad at Love” and ode to bisexuality “Strangers” alongside Lauren Jauregui.

   Halsey then earned her first number one hit as a solo artist with the release of “Without Me”, the official lead single off upcoming third studio album Manic. Tracks like “Graveyard” and “clementine” soon followed, paving way for the current, official third single “you should be sad”.

   Supported by unexpected country-pop production, the acoustic guitar-driven ballad finds Halsey frustrated with the shortcomings of a former lover. Pent up anger is finally unleashed as the artist now breathes easy, dodging a bullet that could have derailed her future. “you should be sad” allows Halsey an opportunity to throw jabs at that ex, attacking his character and motives. It gets nasty at times.

   And while the song touches on accusations of infidelity and mistrust, suspected to be directed at ex G-Eazy, it primarily acts as a moment of resilience and recovery for Halsey herself. “And I had no warning, about who you are, just glad I made it out without breaking down,” she belts on the chorus, touching on abandoned plans for a family in the process.

   “you should be sad” is sonically and creatively different from the rest of Halsey’s catalog, and while some big names have dabbled in the country-pop genre with questionable end results, the twang-y environment works wonders for the artist. Halsey may have originally set out to create a “Before He Cheats” sequel, but she ultimately created something much more poignant and revealing.

   To coincide with the single release, the last before Manic hits shelves on January 17, Halsey also recently shared the accompanying “you should be sad” music video. Taking inspiration from some of her favorite artists: Shania Twain, Christina Aguilera, and Lady Gaga, she incorporates iconic wardrobes and dance sequences while lamenting the end of a relationship in a crowded, sweaty barn.

   The visual might not make much sense in comparison to the lyrical subject matter, but it’s certainly one hell of an enjoyable ride.