Pop/soul singer Sam Smith reveals a somber music video for his latest single, “Too Good At Goodbyes,” a record that follows his international breakout debut album, ‘In The Lonely Hour’ and his Oscar and Golden Globe-winning “Writing’s On The Wall,” the James Bond theme song for Spectre.
In the Luke Monaghan-directed clip, Smith puts the spotlight on relationships and friendships from all sides including heterosexuals to LGBT persons.
Written with go to collaborator Jimmy Napes, and Stargate, “Too Good At Goodbyes” continues to showcase Smith’s polished vocal range and emotive songwriting talents as he sings about a broken relationship.
“I’m never gonna let you close to me,” he sings. “Even though you mean the most to me / ‘Cause every time I open up, it hurts.”
“This song is about a relationship I was in and it’s basically about getting good at getting dumped,” says Smith. It’s been a long while since I’ve put any music out and I feel that this first single sets the tone of what is to come.”
Released in June 2014, Smith’s debut album, In The Lonely Hour was the biggest selling UK male debut in the Soundscan era and has gone on to sell 12.5 million adjusted albums worldwide. In February 2015, Smith set a GRAMMY record, winning a total of four awards – the most ever received by a U.K. artist following the release of a debut album. Smith was named Best New Artist, In The Lonely Hour took Best Pop Vocal Album honors and his single “Stay With Me” won awards for both Record and Song of the Year. On In The Lonely Hour, Smith also earned three Billboard Music Awards, three Brit Awards and six MOBO Awards, among others.
Sam Smith’s “Too Good at Goodbyes” is a poignant and soulful ballad that explores themes of heartbreak and emotional self-preservation. The song has a delicate opening with gentle piano chords and subtle orchestration, creating an intimate and melancholic atmosphere. As the track progresses, the instrumentation swells, with strings and background harmonies adding depth and emotion.
Sam Smith’s vocals are at the heart of the song, demonstrating their remarkable range and emotional expressiveness. Their delivery is soulful and raw, capturing the vulnerability and pain that underpin the song’s theme. The lyrics reflect on the end of a relationship, with a sense of resignation and a recognition of patterns in past goodbyes. Smith’s vocal performance conveys both the strength of letting go and the sadness of repeated farewells.
The chorus is particularly memorable, with the haunting refrain “I’m never gonna let you close to me, even though you mean the most to me,” encapsulating the protective emotional barriers built over time. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the cycle of falling in and out of love, evoking a sense of bittersweet acceptance.
Overall, “Too Good at Goodbyes” by Sam Smith is a beautifully crafted ballad that speaks to the complexities of love and loss. Its emotive production and powerful vocals create a moving experience, allowing listeners to connect with the song’s themes on a personal level. It’s a track that resonates with those who’ve had to say goodbye more times than they’d like, finding solace in its haunting beauty and raw emotion.
Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
