Halsey returns with the third single from her sophomore album hopeless fountain kingdom, “Strangers.” She is assisted by Lauren Jauregui (Fifth Harmony).

Halsey is “kind of a big deal.” After a breakthrough album (Badlands) as well as a ubiquitous, no. 1 single with The Chainsmokers (“Closer”), Ashley Frangipane seems untouchable.  Ahead of her sophomore album, hopeless fountain kingdom (arriving June 2, 2017), Halsey unveiled three promo singles: “Now or Never,” “Eyes Closed,” and “Strangers,” featuring Lauren Jauregui of Fifth Harmony.

“Strangers” is groovier than the previous two singles. Ultimately, it possesses more of a danceable quality. More interesting than the production is the content of “Strangers.” Early on, without knowing background on the song, it’s clear that “Strangers” is an LGBTQ song. Halsey establishes this on the first verse:

“She doesn’t kiss me on the mouth anymore / ‘Cause it’s more intimate than she thinks we should…”

The chorus – varied on each iteration – confirms the LGBTQ tilt:

“Said that we’re not lovers, we’re just strangers / With the same damn hunger / To be touched, to be loved, to feel anything at all / We’re not lovers, we’re just strangers / With the same damn hunger / To be touched, to be loved, to feel anything at all.”

Lauren Jauregui, similarly shares her side of the story on the second verse:

“She doesn’t call me on the phone anymore / She’s never listening, she says it’s innocent…”

Both singers share their stories on the bridge:

“I miss the mornings with you laying in my bed / I miss the memories replaying in my head / I miss the thought of a forever, you and me / But all you’re missing is my body, oh.”

Final Thoughts

“Strangers” is likely to raise eyebrows given its perspective.  It’s much more intriguing than “Eyes Closed,” the single that preceded it. It also gives “Now or Never” a run for its money. Conceptually, “Strangers” keeps things fresh, potentially erecting more buzz for hopeless fountain kingdom.

Halsey • hopeless fountain kingdom • Astralwerks • Release: 6.2.17

Photo Credit: Astralwerks