Kylie Rothfield’s latest release, Never Loved Somebody, is a poignant and deeply resonant indie pop track that merges the soulful warmth of 70s soft rock with the freshness of modern pop. Co-written and co-produced with Eric “Potz” Potapenko, the track stands out as an emotional exploration of the complexities of love and heartbreak, delivered through Rothfield’s signature blend of haunting vocals and expert musicianship.
At the heart of Never Loved Somebody is a narrative that delves into the emotional turmoil of being in a relationship with someone who is incapable of deep, meaningful love. The lyrics navigate the confusing and painful realization of loving someone who has never truly experienced love themselves, an experience that resonates with many listeners. Rothfield captures the essence of this emotional conflict with her evocative vocal delivery, which has the ability to convey vulnerability, strength, and melancholy in equal measure.
This introspective theme, paired with Rothfield’s deeply personal writing style, makes the song an exploration not only of the complexities of romantic relationships but also of self-worth and emotional growth. The song’s emotional depth and vulnerability are further elevated by the skillful production, which despite being crafted entirely in home studios, achieves a full-band energy that feels as though it were recorded live.
One of the most notable aspects of Never Loved Somebody is its seamless fusion of genres and influences. Rothfield’s sound draws from a variety of musical inspirations, including the soulful stylings of iconic artists like Melissa Etheridge and Sheryl Crow, the indie pop sensibilities of Maggie Rogers and Clairo, and the introspective guitar-driven rock of John Mayer and Fleetwood Mac. This blend of classic and contemporary sounds gives Rothfield’s music a timeless quality, while still feeling fresh and relevant in today’s indie pop scene.
The production on Never Loved Somebody highlights this fusion perfectly. Mixed by Rob Stevenson, known for his work with artists like Paul McCartney and Beach Weather, and mastered by Dave McNair, who has worked with legends such as David Bowie and Maroon 5, the track combines the warmth of analog instrumentation with modern pop polish. The result is a rich, layered sound that complements the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Rothfield’s musical journey on this project is supported by an impressive team of collaborators. In addition to co-writer and producer Eric “Potz” Potapenko, who has previously worked with artists like Adam Lambert, Never Loved Somebodyfeatures contributions from Spencer Forte of Mothé and the mixing talents of Robert Stevenson, who has worked with legends like Jeff Beck and Johnny Depp. This collaborative spirit not only elevates the track but also highlights Rothfield’s versatility as both a songwriter and a performer.
Despite being recorded in home studios, the production quality of Never Loved Somebody is exceptional, capturing the raw, organic energy of a live band. This accomplishment speaks to the skill and dedication of both Rothfield and her team, as they successfully blend the intimacy of a home-recording environment with the polish and professionalism of studio-grade work.
Rothfield’s career is nothing short of impressive. With over 1 million streams and views, her music has captured the attention of listeners around the world. Her collaborations with top-tier songwriters like Ryan Tedder (Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Adele) and Ester Dean (Rihanna, Katy Perry) have only furthered her reputation as a rising star in the music industry.
In addition to her songwriting and production skills, Rothfield’s instrumental prowess and vocal ability are what truly set her apart. Her haunting voice, which carries a unique blend of grit and vulnerability, shines through in every track, particularly in Never Loved Somebody. The song’s raw emotion is enhanced by Rothfield’s guitar work, an element that has earned her sponsorship from Epiphone guitars.
Her background in music is equally impressive. Mentored by none other than Alicia Keys, Rothfield has refined her craft with guidance from one of the industry’s most respected artists. This mentorship, combined with her performances on American Idol and Songland, as well as at major festivals like Coachella and BottleRock, have solidified her position as a formidable artist in the indie pop scene.
As Rothfield continues to build her career, Never Loved Somebody stands as a testament to her growth as an artist. The track, with its emotional depth and expert craftsmanship, positions Rothfield as an artist who is unafraid to tackle complex emotions through her music. For fans of indie pop and artists who blend genres with authenticity and depth, Kylie Rothfield is a name to watch.
With the release of Never Loved Somebody, Kylie Rothfield not only showcases her evolution as a musician but also solidifies her place in the broader indie pop landscape. Whether she’s performing at major festivals or crafting music from her home studio, Rothfield’s talent and emotional honesty continue to captivate and inspire her listeners.
In a world where pop music can often feel detached or overly produced, Rothfield’s music brings a refreshing honesty and warmth. As she continues to release music and collaborate with some of the industry’s best, it’s clear that Kylie Rothfield is just getting started on a path that promises to leave a lasting mark on the music world.
Connect with KYLIE ROTHFIELD on
English