The latest opus from Adrielle Bow Belle is a masterpiece of resilience and empowerment, a poignant anthem that confronts adversity with unflinching honesty. From its deeply personal lyrics to its soaring melodies, Carry On encapsulates the journey of breaking free from the chains of abuse and embracing the uncertain yet liberating road to self-discovery.
The opening lines, “A couple of dollars / And the clothes on my back / When I left all I knew in the rearview”, immediately establish the song’s raw and autobiographical tone. Adrielle paints the image of a departure not just physical but emotional, embodying the bittersweet act of leaving behind pain and familiarity. These lyrics resonate universally, especially with those of us who have had to sever ties with toxic environments. The refrain, “I lost you to find me / I can write my own story“, underscores the transformative power of reclaiming agency, echoing a narrative reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s deeply confessional songwriting, and sonic nuances.
Musically, Carry On blends genres seamlessly. Adrielle’s R&B-infused vocal delivery adds a soulful depth to the track, while the pop production evokes mainstream accessibility. Subtle sonic choices, like the layered harmonies and percussive rhythm, manifest a meticulous production style with emotional and lyrical weight. Adrielle’s voice carries a richness and vulnerability that allows us to feel the pain, anger, and ultimate triumph of her journey.
The second verse, “I got used to living under your fist / Took all the pain from the punches you hit,” is both literal and metaphorical. It speaks to the physical and emotional scars left by an abusive relationship but also the resilience forged in surviving such experiences. The accompanying beat, driving yet restrained, mirrors the tension between endurance and release. It’s here that Adrielle’s authenticity shines, her refusal to shy away from uncomfortable truths makes the song both heartbreaking and empowering.
Lyrically, the song’s bridge elevates its thematic depth: “We are the sinners and saints / Every lost girl and boy / Born to a mother and father / Who never wanted the noise.” Adrielle speaks for the voiceless, the foster children, the homeless youth, and the “throwaways” of society. The rawness of lines like “I’m a runaway / Homeless-foster-kid-throwaway” is tempered by a defiant declaration of self-worth. It’s a reclamation of identity that transcends personal experience, resonating with anyone who has ever felt undervalued or unseen.
Adrielle’s ability to weave her advocacy into her art is remarkable. Her commitment to raising awareness about social justice, mental health, and marginalized communities gives the song a greater cultural weight. Carry On Had is more than a personal narrative, it’s a call to action, a reminder that healing is both personal and collective. Fans of Taylor Swift will appreciate this duality, as Adrielle mirrors Swift’s knack for making the personal political and vice versa.
The song’s refrain, “Don’t need you / I choose me,” is the heartbeat of the track. This simple yet powerful mantra captures the ethos of the song, choosing self-love and freedom over fear and dependence. The repetition of “Keep on, keep on, carry on” is not only an affirmation but also a rallying cry. It’s impossible not to feel the catharsis in Adrielle’s delivery, the culmination of pain, perseverance, and empowerment.
The closing moments of the song are a triumph. Adrielle’s vocal layering reaches its peak as she declares, “I’m gone, I’m gone.” It’s a final exhale, a definitive statement of closure and liberation. The instrumentation swells with her voice, creating a sense of movement and forward momentum, as if we are on that 747 jet plane with her, leaving behind the past and embracing the unknown.
Carry On is a testament to Adrielle Bow Belle’s artistry and humanity. It’s a song that doesn’t just tell a story, it lives it. Her ability to channel her experiences into a universally relatable anthem solidifies her as a transformative voice in music. For anyone who has ever faced adversity, questioned their worth, or sought a way out, this song offers not just solace but strength. Adrielle reminds us all to “keep on, keep on, carry on.”
We have added the track to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream Adrielle Bow Belle’s growing discography, including Breaking News, Small Talk and I Want You Back.