Louis Tomlinson, the final One Direction member to go solo, ‘brings the heat’ on his energetic, third solo single, “Miss You.”

Louis Tomlinson was the last official member of One Direction to become a solo artist, following Zayn, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Liam Payne.  After being featured on the Steve Aoki record “Just Hold On,” he dropped singles “Back to You” (featuring Bebe Rexha and Digital Farm Animals) and “Just Like You.”  “Back to You” was merely moderately successful, while “Just Like You” was a flop.  He returns with a third single, “Miss You,” which clearly contrasts the two preceding it.

From the start of “Miss You,” Louis Tomlinson exhibits mad energy.  While he isn’t known for his vocal grit, he is more assertive in his performance.  As he sings, his British accent is quite pronounced, particularly on his unapologetic f-bombs.  The f-bombs stand out, but the more prominent swear is highlighted at the end of the catchy, high-flying chorus:

“We’re dancing on tables / And I’m off my face / With all of my people / And it couldn’t get better they say / We’re singing ‘til last call / And it’s all out of tune / Should be laughing, but there’s something wrong / And it hits me when the lights go on / Shit, maybe I miss you.”

There’s plenty to like about “Miss You” – vocals, the rock-infused pop production, and even a wee bit of ‘bad boy’ persona.  But, it’s a bit hard to envision Tomlinson as being so ‘edgy,’ particularly given the angelic, light texture of his voice.  To some extent, getting the ‘boy band’ bubblegum sound out of Louis may be harder compared to the other members.  Nitpicking of course.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Miss You” is definitely a step up from Tomlinson’s previous single, “Just Like You.”  Arguably, it gets the edge over “Back to You” as well if for no other reason than it showcases more personality for a former boy-bander trying to break through as a solo artist.  All in all, Louis Tomlinson has a good thing working for him here.

Louis Tomlinson • Miss You – Single • Sony Music • Release: 12.1.17

Photo Credit: Sony Music