Portland dream-pop meets indie-folk singer-songwriter Haley Johnsen unleashes her latest single and video for “Higher”. The track is the second release off of her upcoming album Goner out later this year.
With “Higher” Haley Johnsen reflects on all the hard times she has been through and all the obstacles she has faced in her life. “Getting used to the sound of starting over everyday / everytime I look at the door thinking I’m going to leave / how to make something real within these pictures burning in my head. / that nothing gets me higher / nothing gets me higher,” she passionately sings. Despite these difficulties, she did not give up and she continues to achieve self-actualization. In the accompanying ethereal visuals, Haley is seen in vivid colors dancing and floating in an imaginative scene, further highlighting the song’s meaning of pursuing one’s dreams. Sonically, “Higher” is a delicate mix of hushed warm vocals, whimsical slide guitars and ambient alt-pop beats. The single is a slice of fresh dream pop with a retro influence.
Haley Johnsen is a well-known multi-instrumentalist often performing as part of Big Wild‘s band. In 2015 she debuted her first album Through the Blue and since then has built a dedicated fanbase with her meaningful blend of soul-drenched pop and Laurel Canyon-inspired indie-folk releases. Take a listen to “Higher” now and remember to believe in yourself.
