“Better by Myself” by Hey Violet
The premise of this track is the singer (Rena Lovelis) being involved in a toxic relationship. In the first verse she points out ways this toxicity is manifest as her partner is portrayed as someone who is abusive towards her, particularly it would seem verbally and in terms of taking advantage of her love. So the second verse is basically focused on her decision to excommunicate him since her “empathy is dying” and considering they never really got along in the first place. Indeed we see in the third verse that she is just sick and tired of her lover. She also acknowledges that his abusive ways are taking a toll on her self-esteem and sense of freedom.
Based on all this, as the title suggests, Rena has concluded that she is better off on her own. And this is not necessarily an advocacy of singlehood. Rather it is an affirmation that the artist has mustered up the courage to forsake an unhealthy romance. Her decision also acknowledges that she needs to focus more on her own issues, such as her “troubled state of mind”. Thus “Better by Myself” is based on an understanding by the singer that life will be more-rewarding without being entangled by such a depressive partner.
Quick Facts about “Better by Myself”
- The release of this track on 12 April 2019 was a collaborative effort between Hi or Hey Records (founded by the Australian band 5 Second of Summer) and Atlantic Records.
- “Better by Myself” was written by three of the members of Hey Violet. The members in question are Rena Lovelis, Nia Lovelis and Casey Moreta. Songwriter Gabe Simon and the producer of the track, Daniel Nigro also receive writing credits on the track.
- This song will be featured on Hey Violet’s third studio album.
- “Better by Myself” was the first fresh material Hey Violet released in 2019. Prior to this, the band’s last single was a song titled “Hoodie” (which came out in 2017).
Did Miranda Miller contribute to this song?
No. This is Hey Violet’s first song to be released without input from Miranda Miller (the band’s former keyboardist). Miller left the band in 2017.
