Lola Young stands as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary British pop music, blending raw emotional honesty with a smoky, soulful vocal delivery that recalls icons like Amy Winehouse and Adele. The South London singer-songwriter burst onto the scene with her 2019 debut EP and has since captivated audiences with her fearless approach to songwriting, tackling themes of heartbreak, self-sabotage, mental health, and toxic relationships with unflinching candor. Her 2024 breakthrough album “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway” catapulted her to global recognition, with the viral single “Messy” topping charts in multiple countries and earning her a Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance. In 2026, Young continues to push boundaries with her latest album “I’m Only F**king Myself,” showcasing her evolution as an artist who refuses to compromise her authenticity. This ranking celebrates the breadth and depth of Young’s artistry, from her early releases to her most recent work, highlighting the songs that have defined her as one of the most exciting talents in modern pop music.
Messy
“Messy” stands as Lola Young’s defining moment, the song that transformed her from a promising artist into a global phenomenon. Released as part of her 2024 album “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway,” this track topped the UK Singles Chart for four consecutive weeks and reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning multi-platinum status across multiple countries. Young has described “Messy” as an ADHD anthem, written before she received her diagnosis, capturing the chaotic internal struggle of feeling simultaneously too messy and too clean, unable to find balance within herself. The song’s 80s-inspired pop-rock production builds from downcast introspection to bile-spitting theatricality, creating a career-defining statement that resonated with millions who recognized their own imperfections in Young’s raw confession. The track won her the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance at the 68th Grammy Awards, cementing its place as not just her biggest hit but also her most culturally significant contribution to contemporary songs.
Conceited
“Conceited” marked a sonic turning point for Lola Young when it was released on September 29, 2023, introducing the funky, offbeat bassline and playful energy that would define her subsequent work. The track serves as a critical and anthemic takedown of being in a relationship with a narcissistic partner, with Young delivering devastating lines about power dynamics and emotional manipulation. What makes this song particularly compelling is the delicious twist where Young admits she’s enjoying reversing the usual power structure, playing with a man’s mind for once and wielding all the aces in the relationship. The song emerged during creative sessions with producer Solomonophonic, guitarist Conor Dickinson, and keyboard player Will “Manuka” Brown, during which Young also cut her hair, symbolizing a newfound creative freedom. “Conceited” peaked at number 63 on the UK Singles Chart and offered listeners a glimpse of the evolved sound Young was developing, combining uplifting melodies with underlying spite in a unique mix that set her apart from her contemporaries.
One Thing
“One Thing” represents Lola Young’s bold assertion of sexual agency and her refusal to conform to traditional gender roles in pop music. Released on May 16, 2025, as the first new material following “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway,” the track features boom-bap-inspired production that grooves pleasantly while Young delivers a passionate performance about taking control in a new romantic encounter. The song demonstrates Young’s commitment to thought-provoking content that highlights sexuality as both fun and light rather than always meaningful, deliberately reversing typical gender dynamics in mainstream pop. Young has explained that the track reflects her artistic evolution away from “glitz and glam” toward authentic representation, embracing her real self rather than conforming to westernized beauty standards. The track’s frank lyricism and infectious rhythm showcase Young’s growth as an artist willing to explore taboo subjects with humor and honesty, making it a standout moment on her 2025 album “I’m Only F**king Myself.”
Wish You Were Dead
“Wish You Were Dead” channels the furious, rage-filled side of a toxic relationship, serving as the angry counterpoint to the more melancholic songs on “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway.” Released in early 2024, the track captures the raw emotion of being so fed up with someone that you fantasize about their absence from your life entirely. Young’s vocal delivery on this song is particularly striking, moving from controlled verses to explosive choruses that give voice to feelings many people have experienced but rarely express so directly. The song has become a fan favorite and concert staple, with audiences connecting to its cathartic release of pent-up frustration and resentment. “Wish You Were Dead” demonstrates Young’s ability to articulate the darkest corners of romantic disappointment without losing her sense of self-awareness, creating a powerful anthem for anyone who has been pushed beyond their breaking point in a relationship.
Big Brown Eyes
“Big Brown Eyes” showcases Lola Young’s talent for funny yet brash lyricism, depicting the tumultuous rollercoaster of an on-again, off-again relationship with unflinching honesty. Released on April 9, 2024, the track explores how physical attraction can override better judgment, with the titular “big brown eyes” serving as a powerful metaphor for the irresistible allure that keeps drawing the protagonist back despite recognizing the relationship’s toxicity. The song opens with confrontational energy but reveals vulnerability underneath, capturing the complex mix of anger, longing, and desire that characterizes unhealthy romantic attachments. Young’s vocal delivery adds depth to the narrative, blending defiance with admission of weakness, while the production supports the emotional journey with dynamic shifts that mirror the relationship’s ups and downs. The track resonates with listeners who have experienced similar cycles of loneliness leading to impulsive decisions, making it both relatable and poignant in its exploration of why we return to people who aren’t good for us.
Good Books
“Good Books” delves into the emotional exhaustion of a one-sided relationship where the protagonist works tirelessly to maintain their partner’s approval despite receiving nothing in return. The song’s central metaphor is brilliantly executed: Young sings about working hard to stay in someone’s good books, only to realize they don’t even read, making all her efforts futile and meaningless. Young has described this track as representing the sad and hopeless side of toxic relationships, contrasting with the angry energy of songs like “Wish You Were Dead.” The production, crafted with collaborators including Buddy Ross and Carter Lang, creates an atmospheric backdrop for Young’s soulful delivery as she shovels away emotional debris trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy. The song touches on themes of seeking external validation and the desperation of wanting someone to appreciate you when they’re simply incapable or unwilling to do so, making it a powerful exploration of relationship frustration and emotional neglect.
Walk On By
“Walk On By” captures the painful anticipation of encountering an ex-partner with their new relationship, written before Young’s actual breakup as a kind of emotional foreshadowing. The song opens with the protagonist demanding their ex remove their belongings, including an “ugly painting,” symbolizing the rejection of past attachments and the desire to cleanse their space of painful reminders. Young demonstrates mature acceptance of the situation’s inevitability, resolving to maintain dignity and composure when she eventually sees her ex with someone else by choosing to “walk on by” rather than engage. The track’s emotional weight comes from its honest acknowledgment that closure requires both swift action and long-term strength, cutting ties decisively while preparing for future encounters that will test that resolve. This combination of urgency and resignation creates a nuanced portrait of heartbreak that resonates with anyone who has had to face the end of a relationship knowing they’ll continue to cross paths with their former partner.
Post Sex Clarity
“Post Sex Clarity” served as the focus track for “I’m Only F**king Myself,” released on September 19, 2025, and immediately charted at number 60 on the UK Singles Chart. The song explores the emotional aftermath of physical intimacy, that moment of clear-headedness that can follow sex when all the pretense falls away and you see a relationship for what it truly is. Running 4:22, the track features production from Young’s core collaborators Jared Solomon, Conor Dickinson, William Brown, and Carter Lang, creating a sonic landscape that mirrors the contemplative mood of post-coital reflection. The song fits perfectly within the album’s broader themes of self-sabotage and the various ways Young finds herself repeating destructive patterns, using sex as both connection and escape. Its alternative rock influences give it a grittier edge than some of Young’s pop-oriented work, showcasing her versatility while maintaining the emotional rawness that defines her artistry.
d£aler
“d£aler” (stylized with a pound sign replacing the ‘e’) reveals Lola Young’s deeply vulnerable side, exploring themes of self-doubt, self-sabotage, and substance dependency with painful honesty. The song finds Young caught between wanting to be sober and drowning in misery, contemplating escape to somewhere far from her current reality. The track’s emotional weight comes from its frank admission of using drugs as a coping mechanism and the complex relationship that develops with one’s dealer, who becomes a strange sort of confidant in addiction. Released as part of “I’m Only F**king Myself” in 2025, the song showcases Young’s willingness to address her own struggles with cocaine addiction openly, something she discussed publicly while undergoing rehabilitation in late 2024. The production allows Young’s pain-filled vocals to take center stage, creating an atmosphere that’s simultaneously intimate and devastating, demonstrating how her music serves as both confession and catharsis for experiences many struggle with in silence.
Don’t Hate Me
“Don’t Hate Me” appeared on Young’s 2023 debut album “My Mind Wanders and Sometimes Leaves Completely” and quickly became a fan favorite for its emotional vulnerability. The song captures the difficult contradiction of loving someone while finding that love itself hard to navigate and sustain. Young’s pleading vocal delivery conveys the desperate hope that despite her flaws and mistakes, she can still be forgiven and accepted by the person she cares about. The track demonstrates Young’s early ability to articulate complex emotional states with simple, direct language that cuts straight to the heart of relationship anxiety. Its inclusion in her regular setlists since release shows how the song has remained relevant to audiences who recognize their own fears of being too much or not enough for the people they love.
You Noticed
“You Noticed” stands out as one of the album’s most tender moments, focusing on the small acts of attention that make someone feel truly seen in a relationship. Young revealed that this song, like “Walk On By,” drew from a specific relationship that inspired multiple tracks on “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway.” The song’s power lies in its simplicity, celebrating those moments when a partner notices details others miss—the perfume you’re wearing, the way you styled your hair, the subtle changes in your mood. At 4:31, it’s one of the longer tracks on the album, allowing Young to fully develop the emotional narrative of discovering someone who pays attention in ways that feel both rare and precious. The production supports this intimacy with delicate instrumentation that never overwhelms Young’s vocals, creating space for listeners to absorb the song’s message about the importance of being truly present with someone you care about.
Crush
“Crush” captures the exhilarating and terrifying experience of developing intense feelings for someone new, acknowledging the vulnerability that comes with opening yourself up to potential heartbreak. Released as part of “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway,” the track runs 3:47 and showcases Young’s ability to convey both excitement and anxiety within a single song. The production balances upbeat energy with underlying tension, mirroring the emotional rollercoaster of early romantic interest when every interaction feels loaded with possibility and danger. Young’s performance conveys the internal conflict of wanting to protect yourself while simultaneously wanting to dive headfirst into new feelings, a universal experience that makes the song widely relatable. The track demonstrates how Young can make even the most common romantic experiences feel fresh through her specific observations and emotional honesty.
SPIDERS
“SPIDERS” arrived as a single from “I’m Only F**king Myself” and made an impact on the UK charts with its haunting exploration of anxiety and intrusive thoughts. The song uses the metaphor of spiders to represent the creeping fears and anxieties that crawl through your mind, particularly when dealing with mental health challenges. Young’s pain-filled vocal delivery creates an atmosphere that’s both intimate and devastating, drawing listeners into her experience of schizoaffective disorder and ADHD, conditions she has openly discussed in interviews. The track’s placement on the album contributes to its broader narrative about self-destruction and mental health struggles, fitting alongside songs about addiction and toxic relationships. “SPIDERS” showcases Young’s ability to transform difficult personal experiences into universal art that helps listeners feel less alone in their own struggles with anxiety and mental health.
Intrusive Thoughts
“Intrusive Thoughts” directly addresses the experience of unwanted, often disturbing thoughts that characterize certain mental health conditions, delivered with Young’s characteristic raw honesty. At just 2:31, it’s one of the shorter tracks on “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway,” but it packs significant emotional punch in its brief runtime. The song acknowledges that these thoughts “don’t make sense at all,” capturing the frustrating irrationality of intrusive thinking while creating a space for those who experience it to feel understood. Young’s melancholic delivery transforms what could be a clinical topic into something deeply human and relatable, using her own experiences to illuminate a common but rarely discussed aspect of mental health. The track pairs naturally with “SPIDERS” in exploring the internal landscape of anxiety and ADHD, contributing to Young’s reputation for addressing mental health with unprecedented candor in mainstream pop music.
Not Like That Anymore
“Not Like That Anymore” appears on “I’m Only F**king Myself” as a declaration of change and growth, acknowledging past mistakes while asserting that personal evolution is possible. The song features indie-rock influences that give it a driving energy while Young delivers shockingly honest admissions about her struggles with addiction and past behaviors. The track captures the complex process of recovery and self-improvement, recognizing that change isn’t linear and that acknowledging who you were is part of becoming who you want to be. Young’s performance balances vulnerability with strength, creating a nuanced portrait of someone in the midst of transformation rather than claiming to have all the answers. The song has resonated particularly strongly with fans who appreciate Young’s refusal to present herself as perfect or fully healed, instead sharing the messy reality of trying to become better.
FAKE
“FAKE” tackles themes of authenticity and the pressure to present a false version of yourself to meet others’ expectations. Released in 2021 as one of Young’s earlier singles, the track helped establish her reputation for challenging mainstream pop’s often superficial approach to image and identity. The song addresses the constant commentary and expectations that come with being in the public eye, with references to magazines and external voices telling Young who she should be. Its message about staying true to yourself despite pressure to conform has only become more relevant as Young’s profile has grown, making it a fan favorite at live shows. The track demonstrates Young’s consistency in prioritizing authenticity over commercial appeal, a stance that paradoxically contributed to her commercial breakthrough by attracting audiences hungry for genuine artistic expression.
Woman
“Woman” stands as one of Lola Young’s earliest statements, released in 2020 as a powerful anthem of self-possession and empowerment. The accompanying music video featured Young dancing nude, making a bold statement about owning her body and rejecting objectification on her own terms. The song helped establish Young’s fearless approach to both music and visual presentation, signaling from the start that she wouldn’t conform to industry expectations about how female artists should present themselves. Its themes of self-acceptance and bodily autonomy resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning Young early comparisons to artists like Amy Winehouse for her combination of soulful vocals and uncompromising vision. “Woman” remains an important part of Young’s catalog, representing the foundation upon which she built her career-long commitment to authentic self-expression without apology.
Flicker of Light
“Flicker of Light” emerged as a non-album single in 2024, released between “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway” and “I’m Only F**king Myself.” The song explores the fragile hope that persists even in dark times, using the metaphor of a flickering light to represent the small signs of possibility that keep us going through difficult periods. Young’s delivery conveys both the beauty of that hope and the fear that it might be extinguished, creating emotional tension that holds throughout the track. The song showcases Young’s growth as a lyricist, moving beyond straightforward narrative to employ more poetic imagery while maintaining her characteristic emotional directness. “Flicker of Light” demonstrates how Young continues to evolve between album cycles, experimenting with new sounds and approaches while staying true to the core elements that define her artistry.
So Sorry
“So Sorry” arrived in 2022 as one of the singles that strengthened Young’s connections with producers Manuka and Dan Carey, building toward her debut album. The song offers an unflinching look at being “toxic as fuck” and hating being in love because of one’s own destructive patterns, refusing to romanticize or excuse bad behavior. Young’s willingness to position herself as the problem in the relationship, rather than the victim, adds complexity to her catalog of relationship songs and demonstrates her commitment to honest self-examination. The track resonated with listeners who recognized their own capacity for hurting people they care about, creating space for conversations about taking responsibility rather than always blaming others. “So Sorry” shows Young’s early mastery of turning personal failings into art that helps others process their own imperfections and mistakes.
Money
“Money” from the 2023 album “My Mind Wanders and Sometimes Leaves Completely” critiques materialism and ego, addressing someone who is “full of yourself” with characteristic bluntness. The song demonstrates Young’s social consciousness and her willingness to comment on broader cultural issues beyond just personal relationships. Young’s delivery balances frustration with almost pity for those who measure their worth through material possessions and status, creating a nuanced takedown rather than simple condemnation. The track fits within Young’s larger body of work examining authenticity versus performance, real connection versus superficial interaction. “Money” has become particularly relevant as Young herself has achieved greater commercial success, allowing her to speak with authority about the emptiness of chasing wealth and fame at the expense of genuine self-knowledge and relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lola Young’s biggest hit song?
“Messy” is undeniably Lola Young’s biggest hit, topping the UK Singles Chart for four consecutive weeks and reaching number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 2025. The song achieved multi-platinum status in the UK, US, and several other countries, becoming the biggest song of 2025 so far according to Official Charts. Young won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance for “Messy” at the 68th Grammy Awards, cementing its status as both her commercial and critical breakthrough.
What album is “Conceited” from?
“Conceited” was originally released as a standalone single on September 29, 2023, between Lola Young’s debut album “My Mind Wanders and Sometimes Leaves Completely” and her second album “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway.” The track served as a preview of Young’s evolving sound and helped build anticipation for the 2024 album release. While initially released separately, “Conceited” became closely associated with the “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway” era and frequently appears in setlists alongside songs from that album.
When did Lola Young release “I’m Only F**king Myself”?
Lola Young released her album “I’m Only F**king Myself” on September 19, 2025, as the follow-up to her breakthrough second album “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway.” The 14-track album explores themes of self-sabotage, addiction, mental health, and sexuality with Young’s characteristic raw honesty. The album received generally favorable reviews with a Metacritic score of 78 out of 100, and its focus track “Post Sex Clarity” charted at number 60 on the UK Singles Chart while the album itself reached number 3 on the UK Albums Chart.
What mental health conditions has Lola Young discussed in her music?
Lola Young has been remarkably open about her mental health struggles, discussing her ADHD diagnosis that came after writing “Messy,” which she describes as an ADHD anthem. In her music and interviews, Young has also addressed her experiences with schizoaffective disorder, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts, particularly in songs like “SPIDERS” and “Intrusive Thoughts.” Additionally, Young has been candid about her struggles with cocaine addiction, which she addressed through rehabilitation in late 2024, and these experiences heavily inform songs like “d£aler” on “I’m Only F**king Myself.”
Who are Lola Young’s musical influences?
Lola Young grew up listening to a diverse mix of hip-hop artists like Eminem and singer-songwriter types like Avril Lavigne and Bon Iver, before developing interest in classic artists such as Prince and Michael Jackson. Critics and Young herself have cited Amy Winehouse and Adele as comparison points for her smoky vocals and mature songwriting style. Young has also mentioned Arctic Monkeys’ album “AM” as an influence on “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway,” while reviewers have heard echoes of Leonard Cohen, Frank Ocean, and Radiohead in her work, particularly on “I’m Only F**king Myself.”
Where is Lola Young from?
Lola Young is from South London, specifically Beckenham in the southeastern part of the city, where she was born on January 4, 2001. Her South London roots have influenced her musical style and perspective, contributing to her authentic, no-nonsense approach to songwriting. Young learned piano and guitar early in her childhood and started writing songs at age 11, developing her craft in the London music scene before achieving breakthrough success. She continues to represent South London in her music and public persona, maintaining strong connections to her hometown even as her career has achieved international recognition.
What awards has Lola Young won?
Lola Young won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance for “Messy” at the 68th Grammy Awards, marking her first Grammy win. She was also nominated for Best New Artist at the same ceremony, recognizing her rapid rise in the music industry. Earlier in her career, Young was nominated for the BRIT Award for Rising Star in 2022 and finished fourth in the BBC Sound Of 2022 poll, both of which identified her as an emerging talent before her commercial breakthrough. Young has also topped the nominations for the 2025 Ivor Novello Awards, which celebrate excellence in British and Irish songwriting.
What is the meaning behind “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway”?
According to Lola Young, the title “This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway” reflects her creative philosophy of writing music purely for herself rather than to achieve commercial success or please others. Young has explained that she doesn’t write from a place of wondering how others will perceive her work or aiming for chart success, but rather creates from an authentic place of personal expression and catharsis. The title serves as both a disclaimer and a declaration of artistic independence, emphasizing that her music emerges from genuine self-exploration rather than calculated commercial appeal. This approach has paradoxically contributed to her commercial success, as audiences have responded to the authenticity that comes from art created without concern for external validation.
What equipment does Lola Young use for recording?
While specific equipment details aren’t widely publicized, Lola Young works closely with a core team of collaborators including producers Solomonophonic (Jared Solomon), Will “Manuka” Brown on keyboards, and Conor Dickinson on guitar. Her recordings often feature a mix of analog and digital production techniques, with emphasis on capturing the raw quality of her vocals rather than over-polishing them. For those interested in achieving professional sound quality for their own recordings, investing in quality headphones and earbuds can make a significant difference in mixing and production work, allowing you to hear the subtle details that define tracks like Young’s.
Is Lola Young touring in 2026?
Lola Young had initially planned an extensive tour for late 2025 and 2026 to promote “I’m Only F**king Myself,” including dates in the UK, North America, South America, and Europe. However, these plans were disrupted after Young collapsed during a performance of “Conceited” at the All Things Go festival in New York in September 2025 and subsequently cancelled all public activity to focus on her health and recovery. Young resumed performing in January 2026 after taking time to work on herself with support from her team, including a sober coach hired after she relapsed on her recovery journey. Fans interested in current tour dates should check Young’s official channels for the most up-to-date information about upcoming performances.