It’s abundantly clear that this isn’t Haywood’s second bout with music. While the triple-threat singer, songwriter, and producer caught fire with her debut single “Cheers To Us” in March, we use the term “debut” loosely. Haywood is a musical veteran, having co-produced and co-written tracks for the likes of Katy Perry and Justin Bieber, to name a few. Today, she released her second single “Backbeat,” and while the track proves her musical talent, the video shows that she’s a star.

Haywood sings into a broken mirror in the video, putting her arena-ready vocals on full display. The pop-rocker takes her time weaving melodies flawlessly over the high-tempo track, riding an undeniable wave of momentum leading into every chorus. With introspective lyricism about dealing with heartbreak paired with catchy vocals, Haywood is incredibly polished as both a singer and songwriter. “Backbeat” is a windows down, summer drive, singalong type jam. Within the hook, Haywood hollers,

"Don’t want to dance in your backbeat,

Just want to land on my two feet."

Preach. The video — set in black and white — is a masterful display of lighting and shadow work. Thanks to the creative direction of Frederick Cochran and Haywood herself, the Palm Tree Records signee is painted as a modern day Elvis, singing and dancing around a retro microphone stand and grand piano. If you don’t know Haywood yet, check out the video for “Backbeat,” and fall in love with her infectious, timeless style.

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