Halsey is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals, emotional lyrics, and eclectic style. She was born Ashley Nicolette Frangipane on September 29, 1994, in Edison, New Jersey, and began her music career by posting songs on social media. She gained popularity with her debut EP, “Room 93,” in 2014, which led to her signing with Capitol Records.
Halsey’s music is often characterized by its emotive and introspective lyrics, which explore themes of mental health, relationships, and personal growth. Her sound combines elements of pop, rock, and electronic music, with influences ranging from Alanis Morissette to Kanye West. She has released three studio albums, including “Badlands,” “Hopeless Fountain Kingdom,” and “Manic,” all of which have been critically acclaimed and commercially successful.
In addition to her music career, Halsey is known for her activism and advocacy work, particularly for mental health awareness and reproductive rights. She has been open about her own struggles with bipolar disorder and has used her platform to raise awareness and funds for mental health organizations.
Halsey has won numerous awards throughout her career, including several Billboard Music Awards and MTV Video Music Awards. Her powerful vocals, emotional depth, and unique style have made her a beloved figure in the music industry and a role model for her fans around the world.
10. “Closer (with The Chainsmokers)”
“Closer” is a catchy and upbeat pop song by American singer Halsey, in collaboration with electronic dance music duo The Chainsmokers, released in 2016. The track features a memorable hook and a lively beat, with Halsey and The Chainsmokers’ Andrew Taggart trading vocals throughout the song. The lyrics tell the story of a romantic encounter between two former lovers who reconnect and reminisce about their past. With its infectious melody and sing-along chorus, “Closer” became a massive hit and topped the charts in several countries, cementing Halsey’s status as one of the most talented and popular pop artists of her generation.
09. “Now or Never”
“Now or Never” is a brooding and intense song by American singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2017 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Hopeless Fountain Kingdom”. The song features a blend of pop, R&B, and electronic influences, with Halsey’s powerful vocals and a driving beat. The lyrics describe the urgency of a relationship, with Halsey singing about the need to commit to the relationship “now or never”. The song showcases Halsey’s signature sound and bold lyrics, and has become a fan favorite and a commercial success. “Now or Never” marks a significant moment in Halsey’s career, showcasing her growth as an artist and her ability to create powerful and emotive music.
08. “Colors”
“Colors” is a song by American singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2015 as the third single from her debut studio album, “Badlands”. The song features a dreamy, electronic-pop sound with Halsey’s signature breathy vocals. The lyrics speak of a tumultuous and complicated relationship, with the chorus repeating the line “You’re ripped at every edge but you’re a masterpiece”. The song’s production is layered and intricate, with the bridge building up to a climactic chorus. “Colors” received critical acclaim and became a commercial success, showcasing Halsey’s ability to create atmospheric and emotionally resonant music. The song remains one of Halsey’s most popular and beloved songs.
07. “Bad at Love”
“Bad at Love” is an edgy and confessional song by American singer Halsey, released in 2017. The track features a moody and atmospheric melody, with Halsey’s distinctive vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and introspection. The lyrics speak of a pattern of failed relationships and the singer’s struggles to find lasting love. Halsey’s candid and honest portrayal of her own romantic missteps and insecurities resonated with listeners, making “Bad at Love” a relatable and emotionally powerful ballad. With its catchy chorus and introspective lyrics, the song showcases Halsey’s unique voice and distinctive songwriting style.
06. “You should be sad”
“You should be sad” is a country-infused pop song by American singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2020 as the second single from her third studio album, “Manic”. The song features a blend of acoustic and electric instrumentation, with Halsey’s emotive vocals and a twangy guitar riff. The lyrics confront a past lover who has wronged her, with Halsey telling them that they “should be sad” for losing her. The song showcases Halsey’s versatility as an artist, and her ability to seamlessly blend different genres and styles. “You should be sad” has become a fan favorite and a critical success, and is one of the standout tracks from “Manic”.
05. “Ghost”
“Ghost” is a song by American singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2014 as the second single from her debut EP, “Room 93”. The song features a minimalist production, with a simple drum beat and a haunting piano melody. Halsey’s vocals are emotive and raw, conveying the sense of loss and heartbreak expressed in the lyrics. The chorus repeats the line “I’m searching through the wreckage”, emphasizing the theme of searching for closure after a failed relationship. “Ghost” received critical acclaim and showcased Halsey’s ability to create powerful and emotionally resonant music. The song remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Halsey’s discography.
04. “929”
“929” is a deeply personal and introspective song by American singer Halsey, released in 2020. The track features a stripped-down and minimalist melody, with Halsey’s raw and emotional vocals front and center. The lyrics speak of the singer’s journey of self-discovery and the struggles she faced along the way. Halsey candidly reflects on her past, her insecurities, and her aspirations, sharing intimate details of her life with her fans. With its confessional tone and introspective lyrics, “929” is a powerful and moving ballad that showcases Halsey’s talent as a songwriter and her willingness to be vulnerable with her audience.
03. “I am not a woman, I’m a god”
“I am not a woman, I’m a god” is a fierce and empowering song by American singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2021 as the third single from her fourth studio album, “If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power”. The song features a driving beat and an electronic sound, with Halsey’s powerful vocals and confident lyrics. The song celebrates femininity and rejects societal norms and expectations of women, with Halsey declaring that she is not defined by her gender, but by her power and strength. “I am not a woman, I’m a god” is a bold and unapologetic anthem, showcasing Halsey’s growth as an artist and her commitment to empowering her fans.
02. “Graveyard”
“Graveyard” is a song by American singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2019 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Manic”. The song features a pop-rock sound with Halsey’s emotive vocals layered over a driving beat and guitar riff. The lyrics speak of a toxic and all-consuming relationship, with the chorus repeating the line “It’s crazy when / The thing you love the most is the detriment”. The song’s production is dynamic, with a powerful bridge building up to a climactic chorus. “Graveyard” received critical acclaim and became a commercial success, showcasing Halsey’s evolution as an artist. The song remains a fan favorite and a highlight of “Manic”.
01. “Without Me”
“Without Me” is a song by American singer-songwriter Halsey, released in 2018 as a standalone single. The song features a slow-burning pop ballad sound with Halsey’s powerful vocals at the forefront. The lyrics speak of a toxic and codependent relationship, with the chorus repeating the line “Thinking you could live without me”. The song’s production is sparse, with a simple piano melody and subtle electronic elements. “Without Me” received critical acclaim and became a commercial success, becoming Halsey’s first solo number-one hit on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song remains one of Halsey’s most successful and beloved songs.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
