Lizzy McAlphine Performs Older

Lizzy McAlphine was already adept at storytelling when she entered her early 20s as a singer-songwriter. Hailing from Philadelphia and having studied music her entire life, Lizzy studied composition at Berklee before dropping out to write full time. Though relatively unknown within the music industry, she quickly amassed a significant following across TikTok and Instagram platforms after she released her debut album Give Me A Minute (2020). Soon thereafter she found herself touring alongside Phoebe Bridgers and FINNEAS among many others!

With five seconds flat and the film as her sophomore project, McAlpine wrote 14-song story arc that explored heartbreak as cause-and-effect relationship. Additionally, she made a short film to accompany this record, drawing upon her love of screenwriting and acting.

McAlpine’s new song, Older, addresses her recent breakup and desire for someone new. With simple instrumentation and emotive yet plaintive lyrics that resonate with listeners everywhere, Older becomes relatable and accessible.

Even with its undoubted charm, however, some may find this single unsatisfying. Without an obvious climax or variation to draw the listener in, the track can feel monotonous and uninspired — especially after hearing McAlpine’s more vibrant work on her previous album.

McAlphine is quickly making her mark as an artist with a distinct voice and intimate connections to her fans, through Older. Her captivating storytelling and melodic vocal abilities could entice more listeners, helping her escape the sad-girl label often associated with her genre of music.

As 2019 continues, we look forward to witnessing what else McAlphine has in store. She’s been hard at work on her third album and while details can’t be shared just yet, McAlphine says it has taken on a different vibe than previous efforts.

As she works to release her album, we’re delighted to welcome her back to NPR for an intimate performance of one of its songs – orange show speedway!

Check it out below and stay tuned for more from this Berklee alumni, who recently performed alongside Tiny Habits vocal trio in our live series Under the Radar.

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NPR’s Bob Boilen highlights some of his favorite new music this week, such as an exhilarating collaboration by members of FINNEAS and five seconds flat as well as more.

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NPR is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization, and we depend on listeners like you to support our mission of informing, inspiring and enlightening. To show our appreciation, here’s some of our favorite music from this week – enjoy!

This piece was initially published on Feb. 13 2022.