Right from the first gentle tinkling of keys, piano in the background, “If I Couldn’t” by Lewis Edwards grabs one’s attention and then moves straight to the heart. Born in the UK, he does justice once again with a knack for turning raw emotion into a honey-like melodic atmosphere with lyrical depth. The latest single is a reflection by Edwards on his own struggles and love. A tale told with his trademark crystal-clear, warm vocals communicating a story personal and universal at the very same time, comforting in its nuances.
In its essence, the song captures the listener with lyrical honesty and truly heartfelt lyrics. Born and based in the UK, they draw from the rich history of the genre but infuse it with modern flair. Velvety vocals dance over intricate melodies and compelling rhythms to fuse into sounds at once familiar in expression yet refreshingly innovative in context. “If I Couldn’t” is no different, blending elements of indie R&B and pop, pulling the listener into the world of Lewis Edwards, baring all vulnerabilities with honesty and candor.
Made with long-time collaborator Moneo, it’s a minimalist jewel of fragile piano and gentle guitar, while a percussive sound, off-kilter, pulses like a faint heartbeat, underpinning the song’s touching nature. “I wanted the emotion in my voice, my tone, and the lyrics to shine through,” says Edwards. This is the look of perfectionism of a man whose album took nearly two years of re-writing and recording.
“If I Couldn’t” is a very touching and warm message by Edwards to his family and friends, containing just enough to give a hint about how someone can merge personal responsibilities with the pursuit of a music career. He said, “I was going through a testing time being a new father and not feeling like I could be there for friends and family like I used to be. This song is about reminding those I can’t always be in contact with or see as much as I used to that I care just as much as I always have.”
A lyrically intense song, it goes deep into Edwards’ life and how he had to be there for people while battling his own issues. “The second verse explains my own battles, and not being there mentally for others because I have too much on my plate,” he says. “It’s not that I don’t care; I just can’t be what you need right now.”
“If I Couldn’t” is very nearly a letter to people close to him, those whom Lewis would like to remember his love and support across the miles and troubles. The fact that he could only write to feel emotions as genuinely profound as these is the surest measure of his art and authenticity.
Drawing largely from the great R&B legends, Lewis modernises his music for a sound all his own. His silky delivery, the infectious beats and hooks, make for an irresistible listening experience by listeners from all over the world. Having successfully wed traits of classic R&B with modern inspirations, Lewis Edwards quickly created a name for himself in this young R&B scene. His cross-genre and style fusion lead to music that is both familiar and ground-breaking.
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You can listen to ‘If I Couldn’t’ below:
Karen Harding is a Melbourne, Australia based singer/songwriter, founder of Sounds On The Couch, and founder and operator of boutique music PR service for emerging and independent artists, Rise Indie.