Haley Reinhart is embracing a deeply personal journey with her latest single, “Promise.” For the American Idol alum, this song embodies themes of connection, commitment, and the true essence of those words.
In a conversation with PopCrush Nights host Donny Meacham, Reinhart reveals the emotional significance of the track, describing it as both a creative outlet and a reflection of her current life stage. “I think they call it a release because it’s a literal mental release of all kinds of different things,” she shares. “So I’m feeling that right now, for sure. I’m excited.”
She acknowledges the excitement that comes with the anticipation leading to a release. “There’s so much preparation and anticipation leading up to it, so when it’s finally out, part of me just wants to totally detach in a way and let people experience it.” Yet, she also recognizes that “Promise” feels uniquely significant. “I’m very present with this song in particular,” she adds.
The Weight of Words
The term “promise” carries substantial weight for Reinhart. “I feel like I’ve always been the type of person to say, like, never say promise,” she explains. “I never wanted to hear it from somebody, and I never really wanted to use the term. It’s a heavy, loaded word.” This understanding deepens the meaning behind her song.
“The word holds a lot of value, and I’m a firm believer in saying and doing everything that I say I’m going to do,” she states. “At this stage of my life, I’m ready to take on these next chapters.” The song resonates even more as she co-writes it with her fiancé, Drew Dolan, who also plays keys on the track. “This was very much dear to our hearts as we enter this new phase of our love,” Reinhart shares.
Importantly, she aims for the song’s message to transcend romantic relationships. “I wanted it to be universal,” she explains. “I just know how many of our friends love their pets so much. We’re all just like, these are babies.” For Reinhart, this personal connection amplifies the emotional impact of the song. “I think of my dog, Pepper, and I want people to hear this song and really have it pull at the heartstrings and let it apply to whatever it is that they call the love of their life.”
Love, Work — and Making It Work
While collaborating with a partner can be complex, Reinhart finds it a rewarding experience. “I am really proud of us for finishing it together,” she reflects. “You never know how it’s going to go. This is truly our first song that we finished together and that I got to record.” Her fiancé remains a significant creative influence, alongside her family and her travels around the world.
Holding Herself Accountable
Reinhart also touches on the concept of promises from a personal standpoint, particularly the commitments individuals make to themselves. “I would kind of put that in the same category as setting and achieving goals,” she remarks. “I’m a Virgo first and foremost, so I’m very goal-oriented and analytical — and I enjoy it.”
As an independent artist, this mindset becomes crucial. “I’m totally holding myself accountable,” she states. “Making promises to myself is a constant, and I do hold myself accountable every day. I think it’s a good thing to do.”
A Full-Circle Moment
“Promise,” now available, serves as a follow-up to Reinhart’s viral cover of Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” which has garnered over 550 million streams on Spotify and charted on Billboard. The new single strives to capture a similar emotional depth, this time featuring an original narrative centered on love, gratitude, and profound connection.
Having collaborated with notable names like Tony Bennett, Slash, and Jeff Goldblum, Reinhart recently performed sold-out shows at the Troubadour with Goldblum. With a new album on the horizon, “Promise” signals the beginning of a fresh chapter—one that is both intimate and relatable.
Ultimately, Reinhart hopes listeners will understand a simple yet vital message: love, in all its forms, is worth cherishing.
FAQs
What is the meaning behind Haley Reinhart’s single “Promise”?
The song explores themes of connection and commitment, reflecting the personal significance of the word “promise” for Reinhart.
Who co-wrote the song “Promise”?
Haley Reinhart co-wrote “Promise” with her fiancé, Drew Dolan, who also plays keys on the track.
What is the emotional impact of “Promise”?
Reinhart aims for “Promise” to resonate universally, evoking feelings of love that can apply to various relationships, including those with pets.
What can fans expect from Reinhart’s upcoming album?
While details are limited, the album is anticipated to continue exploring personal and relatable themes, following the release of “Promise.”
