It’s not you, it’s mxmtoon. And Carly Rae Jepsen. Actually, it’s no one’s fault. And honestly, either way, you’re going to be okay on your own.
The 20-year-old ukelele-playing, TikTok-dominating indie singer-songwriter-podcaster and the 34-year-old E•MO•TION-al pop crooner have teamed up for a thoughtful post-split jam called “ok on your own,” featured on the “prom dress” singer’s forthcoming dusk EP, the companion to her springtime dawn EP, out on October 1.
The song finds the two navigating a breakup, ever-so-gently letting a former flame down with some kind-as-can-be words of encouragement in the interest of growth on the part of both parties.
“I hate to leave you feeling all alone, but your story can not start until you’ve grown / You can find how to be okay on your own / I just can’t be the one that makes you feel at home,” they advise against the soft sound of chirping birds and a gentle, tripping beat.
Breaking up has never sounded so sweet.
“I need some time to myself so I can comprehend / I’m not so scared to admit I could use a friend / I need some time to myself, to gain some confidence, another confidant / ‘Til I can fall again.”
The delicate and introspective song offers a more relaxed vibe than the “Run Away With Me” dance-pop princess is usually associated with, considering her largely euphoric, oft-dizzy-in-love discography (no sax blasts this time around), but it’s intriguing to hear Carly strolling through mxmtoon’s comparatively stripped-down, dreamy territory. And of course, she’s no stranger to the highs and lows of love…and all of this emotion.
“I was beyond excited to work on this track and have it be graced by Carly Rae Jepsen, someone who stands for empowerment and knows the themes of love and loneliness all too well. My hope for the song is that ‘ok on your own’ can let people know that vulnerability is never something to be afraid of, and admitting you need time for yourself and support from a friend is sometimes a necessary step,” Maia says of the collaboration.
“Sometimes relationships aren’t meant to work. It’s a bitter reality that many of us come to terms with at one point or another, but we all have to realize our own self worth before letting certain people into our lives! ‘ok on your own’ is your reminder that stepping away from a relationship isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather one of strength!”
Stepping away for self-preservation is indeed strength! And there’s also strength in numbers. And even if you’re own, that doesn’t mean you’re actually alone. So go give a friend a call to get through this time of reflection and growth – especially if that friend just happens to be the Canadian Queen of Pop.
This song is featured on the MuuTunes Spotify playlist.
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Photo credit: Noelle Duquette & Savannah Elisabeth Jankosky / Alex Perkins
