New Zealand’s rising star Jesse Will delivers an emotionally-charged anthem with "Puddles," a poignant exploration of surrender and impermanence. The track showcases Will’s raw talent through a tender, atmospheric soundscape that delves into resilience amid trauma. It’s the kind of song that catches you off-guard with its honesty, leaving you contemplating life’s ebbs and flows.
Produced by James Kenosha (Birdy, Rhodes), the track’s foundation rests on Will’s effortless vocals floating above touching piano melodies. The production strikes a delicate balance—simple yet grounding, with unexpected dramatic flourishes that elevate the piece. You can almost feel the emotional weight lifting as the song progresses, kinda like watching storm clouds part after rainfall.
"It explores recovery and the resilience that trauma leaves us with," Will explains about the track. "I was inspired by the life cycle of water, how water is evaporated, and eventually returns to where it was, yet somehow purified from the experience."
Will first caught public attention when his soulful cover of "Shake It Off" was shared by Taylor Swift herself—a career-defining moment for sure! Since then, he’s continued to evolve artistically, developing a powerful yet sensitive musicality that distinguishes him from his peers. His third studio release is on the horizon, and based on "Puddles," we’re in for something special.
