The Sweet Tones of Robyn's "Honey" Mark Her Triumphant Return to Music

The sweet tones of Robyn’s most recent single “Honey” mark a newer, more optimistic shift in tone for the singer’s triumphant return to music.

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Robyn is an undeniably powerful force in the music industry. Her critically acclaimed 2010 album Body Talk was regarded as one of the best albums of the decade. And naturally, her fans have been clamouring for new music ever since. But with the release of “Missing U” earlier this year, and now her latest single “Honey” (September 26, 2018 via Konichiwa/Interscope), Robyn is back with a new, more optimistic sound than before.

Every colour and every taste
Every breath that whispers your name
It’s like emeralds on the pavement
Every colour and every taste
Every breath that whispers your name
It’s like emeralds on the pavement
I got your honey, baby
At the heart of some kind of flower
Stuck in glitter, strands of saliva
Won’t you get me right where the hurt is?
At the heart of some kind of flower
Stuck in glitter, strands of saliva
Won’t you get me right where the hurt is?

Stream: “Honey” – Robyn

The “Dancing On My Own” singer is most notable for her ingenious blend of upbeat synth-pop, juxtaposed with angst ridden lyrics. But after the release of her two most recent singles, it appears we’re beginning to see a shift in the tone of Robyn’s discography. “Honey” begins with angelic synths and a sure, cocky challenge to the subject of the song. It’s overtly sexual – and takes its time, too. “Honey” doesn’t meander. But it doesn’t rush along, as you would expect from a stereotypical pop song, either. The construction of each verse, and the placement of each word is deliberate, and thus captures both the innocence and sexuality that permeate the song.

Honey - Robyn single art — Honey – Robyn

No, you’re not gonna get what you need
But baby, I have what you want
Come get your honey
No, you’re not gonna get
what you need (you need)
Baby, I have what you want
Come get your honey
I got your honey, baby

Robyn has always been un-orthodox. I mean, you don’t take an eight year hiatus, after your most successful release, unless you’re un-orthodox. But, eight years was clearly what was needed because “Honey” feels like something different for the singer. It’s a different sound, and incorporates a number of previously un-explored themes. And, it’s something that’s been in the works for a while. The HBO show ‘Girls’ used an early version of the song, but that was wildly unlike the finished track. Robyn’s vocals are airy, and echo throughout the song’s length. And, again, feel entirely deliberate.

Robyn has been quite candid when discussing her up-coming album: “I danced a lot when I was making it. I found a sensuality and a softness that I don’t think I was able to use in the same way before.” And, personally, you’d be hard pressed to disagree. The newest singles feel more confessional, and “Honey” in particular possesses a quality that makes it feel vulnerable and honest, while sounding different from Robyn’s earlier discography.

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