Rex Orange County is a British singer with fans all over the world. He is most known for
his song “Pluto Projector”, but that is only one of his hits. Rex has five albums out and over five
singles. If you haven’t listened to any of his songs or found yourself not interested, you should
consider recognizing the deeper understanding of his lyrics, especially if you find yourself
questioning your happiness. His music makes you want to dance and cry all at the same time.
His songs range from two to seven minutes and are absorbed with vibrant instrumentals that
make you unconsciously nod your head to the rhythm. When you take time to listen to his
verses, you realize they’re written from the heart and soul. Sitting outside with headphones on is
an ideal situation in order to fully take it all in.
Born in 1998, he is on the cusp of Gen Z, so his music easily resonates with the younger
generations. However, his music is meant for everybody, mostly being about emotions and
self-reflections. Anybody can relate to his lyrics and appreciate the art in the instruments used in
his songs. His favorite musician is Stevie Wonder, and he has a deep love for him the way his
fans have a deep love for Rex. Stevie Wonder created music varying from different genres and
has been seen as an idol by other musicians. He produces R&B and a mix of other genres like
funk and jazz. With some similarity to Stevie Wonder, Rex Orange County is known for its indie,
jazz, and pop vibe. Here are four of my must-listen songs.
meaningful bonds and a strong attitude towards his own emotions. He acknowledges that he
believes he will understand his thoughts at some point in his life: “Maybe in time, maybe one
day, I’ll do the same.” The song continues with the reassuring phrase, “I’ll do the same,” which
comforts himself and the listener. Anyone in the “coming of age” phase of their life will easily be
able to resonate with this song as it is a time when we are frustrated and confused with
ourselves often. However, Rex points out that having a positive outlook on the future is
important, regardless of your current emotions. The song shifts into a deep instrumental and
piano section at the end that is bound to get you in your feels.
“Never Enough” is the song that will raise your energy levels from the drums and guitar
in the background. This song is mixed with depressing lyrics but an upbeat rhythm. Similar to a
majority of his songs, it starts with self-reflection on past actions and a positive outlook on future
aspirations. The chorus of his song begins with, “You might feel what it’s like to not know how to
feel”. This chorus is enriched with loud guitar instrumentals in the back that add movement and
tone to the lyrics. He notes that it can be hard to come to terms with your feelings until you are
left by yourself to face them directly.
“10/10” is also about self-reflection and still maintaining that positive outlook on the
future. He starts the song by talking about how he feels like a 5/10, but if he gets his “…shit
together, maybe…” next year, he will feel like a 10/10. A common phrase around New Years is,
“New year, new me,” insinuating that many people can relate to not feeling good about
themselves at certain points in their lives. He acknowledges the struggles he’s dealt with and
talks about giving himself “a little” credit for dealing with the pain. These lyrics can be taken as
influential because it’s important for you to take care of your mental well-being and also be
proud of yourself for taking the time for it.
“Always” highly focuses on introspection and awareness of his own thoughts. A
common feeling people can experience when they are depressed is doubt of a better future.
Rex opens the song by talking about this feeling of self-doubt, yet he continues to reassure
himself and the listener. He mentions that it took him time to realize he needed “help from
somebody else,” and he continues to say he gets reminded that he is not “the only one.” He
expresses that it is important to take a moment to realize it is normal to have these disruptive
emotions. The chorus of this song will have you thinking deeply about everything you just heard,
eager to hear what’s next.
These four songs only represent the art Rex Orange County creates for himself and his
listeners. Take some time out of your day to tune into some of his top hits like “Best Friend,”
“Sunflower,” and “Loving Is Easy,” which are all singles. Older albums like Apricot Princess and
Pony will give you a sense of appreciation for artists and, more specifically, Rex Orange County.