“The Longing” is the latest single from Harry Kappen, a seasoned musician and music therapist whose work is consistently rooted in deep personal reflection and universal themes. Recently relocated to Mexico City, Harry offers this new release as the fourth single from his upcoming album FOUR—and it may well be his most emotionally charged song yet.
At its core, “The Longing” is an intimate portrayal of the timeless tug-of-war between head and heart. Harry captures that inner dialogue many people face: the push and pull between logic and emotion, between analysis and raw feeling. This universal struggle is presented with a sincerity that resonates deeply, making the song both personal and widely relatable.
Musically, “The Longing” stands out for its dynamic structure. The track shifts effortlessly from soft, reflective acoustic sections to bursts of powerful rock energy, mirroring the emotional conflict at its center. It’s a soundscape that feels alive, as though two forces are constantly circling each other. The use of both acoustic and electric guitars creates texture and depth, while polyphonic vocal lines add a human, almost confessional layer. These sonic choices are not accidental—they are deliberate reflections of the battle between restraint and release.
Harry’s background as a multi-instrumentalist shines here. The lyrical guitar solo feels like an extension of the heart itself, raw and expressive. Orchestral touches enrich the track, giving it a cinematic quality that elevates the storytelling. The alternating moods—introspective and explosive—are a brilliant artistic choice, perfectly aligning the music with the theme.
This single follows earlier releases such as “Courage,” inspired by his love for his wife and his recent move to Mexico, “Break These Chains,” which voiced resistance to political turbulence in Europe and America, and “Be Brave If You Can,” a track that was warmly received by listeners. Where those songs dealt with love, political awareness, and bravery, “The Longing” explores something more internal, almost philosophical: how we reconcile what we feel with what we know.
Harry’s musical inspirations are as eclectic as they are legendary. He draws influence from icons like John Lennon & Paul McCartney, Prince, David Bowie, Thom Yorke, Knower, Alanis Morissette, and Led Zeppelin. These influences can be subtly felt in the way the track blends melodic vulnerability with strong, unapologetic rock elements. The result is a sound that pays homage to classic artistry while remaining very much Harry’s own.
What makes “The Longing” particularly compelling is its authenticity. This isn’t just a well-produced track; it’s a deeply felt piece of work that translates complex emotions into something tangible. You can feel the battle as much as you can hear it. By the end of the song, Harry suggests that his heart ultimately wins—but not at the expense of his head. It’s a balanced resolution, a quiet acceptance that both logic and emotion shape who we are.
“The Longing” is more than a single—it’s an invitation to sit with your own contradictions and find beauty in the tension. It confirms Harry Kappen’s gift for blending thoughtful songwriting with powerful musicality, and it sets a strong tone for what promises to be an unforgettable album.
Connect with HARRY KAPPEN on
English