Drawing us in with a cerebral sound design, Scarlett Sno opens Terrified with atmospheric vocals and luscious harmonies to take us on an introspective and somewhat metaphorical journey as she begins to share her soul with us.
Terrified is an emotionally charged anthem that captures the raw essence of ambition and the inner turmoil that often accompanies the pursuit of one’s dreams. From the first lyric, Scarlett Sno‘s haunting vocals draw us into a deeply personal narrative, making it impossible not to feel every ounce of the fear and determination she so eloquently expresses.
The song opens with a mantra of self-reassurance, “Don’t worry it will all be okay,” a line that immediately sets the tone for the internal struggle that unfolds. As the lyrics progress, Scarlett Sno delves into the overwhelming mental noise and exhaustion that comes from relentless striving: “As the voices get louder in my head / And everything I do just leaves me drained in bed.” This vivid imagery captures the listener’s imagination, painting a relatable picture of burnout and fatigue.
Scarlett Sno‘s ability to convey the weight of potential and the crippling effects of self-doubt is masterful. Lines like “I can feel myself spinning out / From the pressure of everything I could be”, and “I’m becoming my own worst enemy”, speak to the universal experience of feeling inadequate despite one’s best efforts. The recurring theme of being “terrified” resonates deeply, highlighting the fear of failure and the anxiety of not living up to one’s own expectations.
The song’s chorus is a powerful blend of vulnerability and resolve. “Now I’m terrified it won’t all work out / I’m terrified I’m wasting myself” encapsulates the dual fear of failure and wasted potential. Yet, even amidst this fear, Sno’s determination shines through: “I’ll run until my knees give out / But I won’t give up on myself.” This juxtaposition of fear and perseverance is what makes Terrified so compelling.
Musically, the opus is anchored by an evocative and dynamic arrangement with boundless strings and drama that perfectly complements Scarlett Sno‘s introspective universe and the catharsis that ensues. The build-up of instrumentation mirrors the emotional crescendo of the song, leading to a climactic affirmation of self-belief and unyielding drive.
Terrified is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever grappled with the weight of their aspirations. Scarlett Sno‘s raw honesty and emotive delivery make this track a standout, offering both solace and inspiration. In a world where dreams often come with a heavy price, Terrified is a poignant reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the power of never giving up. Speaking on the release, the rising star confesses, “Terrified is a song born from pain, anxiety, and a fear of the unknown.”
Scarlett Sno is a Nashville-based pop artist and songwriter who invites us into her dark fantasy world, blending pop, rock, and cinematic elements, exploring the intense desire and fear that accompany the pursuit of dreams.
We learn that Terrified was inspired by Scarlett’s own struggles after developing muscle tension dysphonia following a COVID-19 infection in 2022, which left her unable to speak or sing without pain for nearly a year. The song reflects her fears, anxieties, and determination during this challenging time, with hopes that it will offer solace to others.
Scarlett, known for co-producing her music and drawing on personal experiences, describes her discography as an exploration of the human condition, influenced by artists like Evanescence, Lady Gaga, Panic! At The Disco, and K-pop groups B.A.P and ATEEZ, but it is clear that the star is manifesting a universe of her own. We have added Terrified to our New Music Spotlight playlist and our new TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream Scarlett Sno‘s exquisite wider discography including Helium, Survivor, and Umbrella.