Noah Richardson Admits This Will Be ‘Painful’

Love is tricky – especially when there are three people involved. Philly-based artist Noah Richardson’s latest single, “Painful,” which released on February 11, explores the allure of a love triangle and the inevitable dicey nature of its aftermath.

“This song is about somebody stuck inside of a love triangle, and knowing that regardless of the outcome, it’s going to hurt,” Richardson explains. “However, you get just what you pay for when you fall in love and are in a love triangle. Someone’s going to get hurt, and it’s going to be painful.”

“No sleep, well you fell asleep on me / I lay awake all lucid and lonely / I make mistakes when I’m lonely,” Richardson sings before proceeding into the chorus, “You could make this painful / I get just what paid for / You could make this painful.” The lyrics suggest that song’s protagonist realizes the implications of his actions with a frank honesty, including acknowledging that the delicate situation is on his conscience.

Noah Richardson is a recent graduate of West Chester University and he notes he was inspired to write “Painful” during a practice session with his friends John Minehart (bass) and Dylan Korman (guitar), who accompany him for live shows. “Painful” was produced by Tyler Ripley and recorded at Little Brother Audio.

The instrumentation of “Painful” is smooth and groovy, accentuated by funky bass, jazzy guitar chords, and R&B influenced vocals. The sexy, slow jam reflects the feeling of being stuck in an in emotional crisis during which time feels prolonged and compressed simultaneously.

“The almost whispering, intimate falsetto vocals of the pre-chorus juxtaposed by the sultry verses, showcase the feelings going through one’s mind when stuck in the emotional whirlwind that is love and relationships,” notes Richardson, adding “I wanted to capture that feeling of someone laying in bed, love sick over a relationship or situation they were going through.”

Although we are not exactly sure of how the three lovers resolve their entanglement, one thing for certain is that it’s going to be a messy business. Listen to “Painful” below, and stay tuned for upcoming releases from Noah Richardson throughout the year. Follow our Alchemical Weekly Spotify Playlist for more great music featured on the site.