Holly Humberstone Navigates the Pitfalls of Catching Feelings For a Friend in "Sleep Tight"

Photo: Deanie Chen

The classic friends to lovers trope is a tale as old as time. The thrilling confusion that one encounters in such a situation is indistinguishable and often difficult to articulate, perhaps making it the reason why it’s often the subject of much of what we we read, watch, and listen to. Holly Humberstone's "Sleep Tight" is no exception, as she navigates these confusing yet exhilarating feelings of fear and bliss. The UK singer-songwriter's new track signals moments of nostalgia and longing for an old romance, juxtaposing the thrills held tucked away in the unknown.

Humberstone finds herself battling a unique vulnerability as she finds herself grieving over a loss that she has yet to experience."Sleep tight, I’m on my way back and feeling kinda sad / ‘Cause you were the best thing I never knew I had" The singer-songwriter later admits "It seems like I wanna rush things, I should just enjoy the ride / 'Cause you were the best thing I never knew is mine."

“It's awkward trying to navigate catching feelings for a friend, as they are often feelings we might have been suppressing for some time. When they float to the surface, you have to weigh up the risks of getting hurt and potentially losing them in your life. I wrote 'Sleep Tight' about the uncertainty of friendships evolving into something more. The first summer out of lockdown was pretty crazy for my friends and I because we finally had our freedom back and acted like we had nothing to lose. This song takes me back to that time of what felt like no consequences and impending heartbreak,” shares Humberstone.

As the second collaboration with The 1975's Matty Healy, Humberstone continues to lean into the nostalgic pop perfection that has captivated her growing audience at every turn. Directed by Bradley J. Calder, the visual aspect of "Sleep Tight" proves to be equally as stunning. The music video feels like an intimate moment between the viewer and Humberstone, a further extension of her palpable yet delicate sonic diary.