South African singer-songwriter Will Linley is taking a leap of faith with his latest release.
The rising 24-year-old artist has dropped “Head First,” a new single out now via Island Records that sees Linley leaning into a more instinctive, carefree approach to songwriting. The track follows a recent run of momentum for the Cape Town-born artist, including his appearance on the soundtrack to Prime Video’s hit series Off Campus with “Holding The Line.”
Released July 24, “Head First” marks another step in Linley’s evolution as he continues to carve out his place in the international pop landscape.
The song was written earlier this year with longtime collaborator John Samual, with Linley describing the session as an example of the freedom that comes from no longer overthinking the creative process.
“I feel like we’ve got to the point where we aren’t so precious about making music and rather trying to make something that feels real, fun, and authentic to ourselves,” Linley says.
According to the singer, “Head First” came together almost effortlessly during an afternoon writing session.
“And this song fell into our laps,” he adds. “I’ve always wanted to write a song like this and it’s taken me a couple of attempts but it’s so cool to have this one out in the world.”
The release arrives at a particularly strong moment for Linley. Earlier this year, “Holding The Line” was featured on Off Campus: The Mixtape, the official soundtrack to Prime Video’s adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s bestselling college hockey romance series. The soundtrack, released in May, brought together new music from artists including Asha Banks, The Two Lips, Chloe Lilac and Linley.
The placement offered another international spotlight for the South African artist, whose catalogue includes songs such as “Miss Me (When You’re Gone),” “I Loved, I Lost” and “Last Call.”
With “Head First,” Linley appears less interested in over-engineering the moment than simply embracing it — a fitting approach for a song born from the decision to stop being precious and start making music that feels authentic.
For Linley, the result is a track he has been waiting to put into the world.
Listen to ‘Head First’ below and read more music news here.
