Billy Lockett Reminds Us to Be Our Own Best Friend in “Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself”


We are each our own worst critics. It can be easy to lift others up and remind them of all their amazing attributes, but when it comes to ourselves, we are quick to point out every flaw. Billy Lockett’s tender, emotive release “Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself” lets us know that we are worthy of love and reminds us that self-love is the strongest love we can give.

With an effortless falsetto floating above striking piano chords, there is a sonic richness to the simplicity of "Don't Be So Hard on Yourself." That beauty mirrors that splendor of finding inner acceptance and peace. “Do you pick apart the pieces of your body / Overthink everything in your life? / Do you compare yourself to almost anybody? / Don’t worry I’m the same,” he sings. Lockett provides that solace and connectivity by allowing listeners to understand they are not alone. Feeling as if we are never good enough is a universal commonality, but with this anthem, we are one step closer to breaking that cycle. 

Similar to artists like James Arthur and Calum Scott, Lockett possesses an intensely soulful tone and magnetic vulnerability. Hailing from Northampton, UK, he grew up in a household that was not the most stable, leading to a spiral of addiction in adulthood. Now, he comes out the other side a happier more grounded person. All those experiences, good and bad, have left him with a host of valuable life lessons. He shares that profound wisdom in every dazzling and bold track from his debut album, Abington Grove, which is out now. 

Watch the "Don't Be So Hard on Yourself" video below:



Related Articles

corook x Whale Songz On the Art Of Following The Fun [Q&A]

corook x Whale Songz On the Art Of Following The Fun [Q&A]

September 28, 2026 For our 11-year anniversary, we asked OnesToWatch alumni to nominate the next wave of artists on the rise. Beloved Pittsburgh singer-songwriter corook chose Whale Songz—the musical duo of Olivia Barton and Annika Bennett.
Author: Ariana Tibi
pop
Maria Fuell Is Bringing the Sounds of the Andes to a New Generation [Q&A]

Maria Fuell Is Bringing the Sounds of the Andes to a New Generation [Q&A]

September 28, 2026 OnesToWatch chatted with Fuell to talk about her music, her roots, and her accomplishments in her career thus far.
Author: Sarah Ruiz
pop
On ‘IS THIS THE END?’ Chelsea Cutler Embraces Every Era

On ‘IS THIS THE END?’ Chelsea Cutler Embraces Every Era

September 28, 2026 IS THIS THE END? Is a big-hearted, unapologetic record from an artist who sounds more comfortable in her own skin than ever.
Author: Matt Keenan
pop