At 15 years old, Olie Beckett is re-writing the handbook on how to be a young pop artist. On his new single, "Hawkeye," the rising singer-songwriter creates a sound as intimate as it is irresistible, a hazy, genre-melding joyride that plays like both a throwback and something all its own.
With the hot contemporary R&B colors of bedroom pop and dream pop informing the vibe of "Hawkeye," Beckett's sound strengthens his aesthetic. From the first hit, the track reels you with a sleek, relaxed groove of buttery drums against sharp, lithe production, setting a light and airy stage suitable for late-night introspection or sun-streaked reverie. But beneath the mellow facade is a development beyond Olie's years.
The jaw-dropping moment comes in the bridge, where Olie lets rip with a series of animated fast-fire vocals that show stunning control and range. His artistry truly blazes fearless, emotionally acute, and ridiculously nimble here. He is relaying his story with nuance and openness. "Hawkeye" touches on young love, identity, and the bittersweet realities of growing up. Olie handles emotional complexity with a gentle hand, recognizing the tug and pull of relationships and the hard lesson that you cannot make people different, a reality many adults are still working through. His words were inflicted without rancor, and as a result, the song feels relatable for both teens and older listeners.
Olie Beckett's sound is inspired by greats like Harry Styles, SZA, and Ariana Grande, but he's no imitator. He's carving out a niche for himself. His rise from singing in church to being a newfound pop star is impressive and inspiring. "Hawkeye" is a signal flare from one of pop's most radiant new voices. And if this track indicates, Olie Beckett is leading the next generation.
Discover Olie Beckett on Instagram