Kylie Rothfield, a rising force in the indie music scene, is back with her latest single, “The Barrel,” a powerful and emotive track that draws from her deep musical roots and life experiences. Released as the second single from her upcoming album, “The Barrel” showcases Rothfield’s signature blend of indie pop and soulful R&B influences, while delving into themes of personal struggle, self-worth, and the difficult cycles many find themselves trapped in.
Co-written with Eric “Potz” Potapenko, Haleigh Bowers, and Amy Kuney—songwriters known for their work with artists like Kelly Clarkson and Chappell Roan—this song captures the feeling of being stuck at rock bottom, settling for less than you deserve in life and relationships, and repeating those patterns. It’s a deeply introspective track that resonates with anyone who has found themselves in difficult, seemingly inescapable situations.
At its core, “The Barrel” is a reflection of the emotional exhaustion that comes with repeatedly settling for less, both in love and life. Rothfield’s lyrics cut straight to the heart, offering an honest portrayal of the internal conflicts and frustrations that arise from knowing you deserve more, but feeling stuck in the same cycle.
With lines that evoke a sense of emotional desperation, the song captures the heaviness of feeling at your lowest point—an experience many can relate to. Rothfield’s rich, soulful vocals bring this emotional weight to life, delivering a performance that is raw and heartfelt.
In describing the song’s message, Rothfield shares that “The Barrel” is about “being stuck at rock bottom, settling for less than you deserve in life and relationships, and repeating the cycle.” This thematic exploration of self-worth and emotional entrapment is central to Rothfield’s storytelling and allows listeners to connect deeply with the material.
Musically, “The Barrel” is a seamless blend of indie pop with strong R&B influences, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists such as Allen Stone, Remi Wolf, Emily King, and John Mayer. The song’s production is minimal yet rich, with each element carefully crafted to highlight Rothfield’s vocals and the poignant lyrics.
The production, co-helmed by Rothfield and Eric “Potz” Potapenko in their home studios, creates a sound that feels intimate and personal. This is enhanced by the contributions of Robert Stevenson (known for his work with Beach Weather and Paul McCartney), who mixed the track, and Dave McNair, who mastered it, adding polish to the final product while maintaining its raw authenticity.
The fusion of indie pop and soulful R&B gives “The Barrel” a unique sound that stands out in today’s music landscape. The use of smooth harmonies, combined with Rothfield’s emotive vocal delivery, evokes comparisons to artists like Emily King and Allen Stone, both known for their ability to seamlessly combine genres in emotionally charged songs.
Kylie Rothfield’s music reflects her impressive background, including mentorship from the legendary Alicia Keys and collaborations with top-tier songwriters like Ryan Tedder (who has worked with Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Adele) and Ester Dean (known for writing hits for Rihanna and Katy Perry). These experiences have helped Rothfield hone her craft, allowing her to bring a level of sophistication and depth to her songwriting that is rare in today’s indie music scene.
With over 1 million streams and views, a sponsorship from Epiphone guitars, and her music featured on major TV networks, Rothfield is steadily making her mark in the industry. Her ability to blend genres and convey raw emotion has earned her a loyal following, and “The Barrel” is poised to further solidify her place as one of indie music’s rising stars.
Rothfield’s commitment to authenticity and emotional transparency sets her apart in the indie music scene. As a singer-songwriter, she consistently pushes boundaries, both musically and lyrically, to create songs that resonate on a deep, personal level. “The Barrel” is no exception. The song’s message of breaking free from cycles of settling for less is one that many listeners will find cathartic and empowering.
With her upcoming album, Rothfield continues to explore themes of vulnerability, resilience, and self-discovery, offering listeners a glimpse into her personal experiences while providing a soundtrack for their own emotional journeys.
Kylie Rothfield’s “The Barrel” is a soul-stirring indie pop track that stands as a powerful reminder of her unique voice and artistic vision. Co-written with a team of seasoned songwriters and co-produced with Eric “Potz” Potapenko, the song captures the frustration and weariness of hitting rock bottom, but also hints at the possibility of growth and transformation.
With its blend of indie pop, soulful R&B influences, and Rothfield’s raw, emotive vocals, “The Barrel” is sure to resonate with audiences who appreciate honest, heartfelt music. As Rothfield prepares to release her full album, this single serves as an exciting preview of the emotional depth and musical diversity she is bringing to the table. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, “The Barrel” is a must-listen, offering a soulful, introspective journey that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
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