Myles Lloyd Turns Emotional Imbalance Into R&B Catharsis
Some relationships do not fall apart all at once. Sometimes, the imbalance has been there for so long that recognizing it becomes its own kind of heartbreak. Canadian R&B artist Myles Lloyd builds his music around those exact subtle emotional shifts, exploring memory, doubt, and desire through songs that feel reflective without losing their directness. And rooted in classic soul, contemporary R&B, and early-2000s pop, his sound carries smooth falsettos and nostalgic textures that deepen the emotional weight of those moments while keeping the music instantly melodic.
That emotional pull is at the center of Lloyd’s new single, “One Sided,” which dropped on July 10. Guided by rhythmic production and a memorable hook, the song follows the slow realization that a relationship has stopped feeling mutual. Lloyd describes it as “going all in for somebody who was never really all in for you,” giving shape to the exhaustion of continuing to show up for someone who is no longer meeting you halfway.
It is a feeling that seems to have already struck a chord with listeners. Ahead of its release, a preview of “One Sided” has earned nearly two million likes, 35,000 shares, and 54,000 saves on Instagram. At the same time, his breakout single “Drive Me Crazy” continues to reach new audiences, recently appearing in an ENHYPEN and Pinterest partnership. Both moments reflect the connection listeners have found in Lloyd’s ability to make emotionally specific songs feel familiar from the first listen.
That ability to turn private emotional conflict into something widely recognizable has been taking shape across Lloyd’s recent work. Through projects including Goodbye, Forever, Yours, WHAT MORE CAN I SAY?, and his 2024 album I’m Still Thinking, he has continued refining a sound rooted in tenderness, reflection, and sharply felt romantic uncertainty. But above all, “One Sided” fits naturally within that catalog: polished, reflective, and delicately centered on the difficult moment when you finally admit you have been carrying something alone.
You have described “One Sided” as being about carrying the relationship on your back. Was there a particular feeling or scene you wanted listeners to recognize in that lyric?
Myles Lloyd: I think it started with the realization that I was putting in so much effort just to keep something alive. It wasn’t one dramatic moment; it was a bunch of little moments where I kept making excuses for someone else. Eventually, I realized love shouldn’t feel like you’re doing all the lifting by yourself. That’s where the song came from.
The production has a strong rhythmic pull, while the subject matter is more reflective. What did you want the sound of “One Sided” to bring out in that story?
Myles Lloyd: I’ve always loved songs that make you want to move even when they’re exploring something painful or sad. I wanted it to feel like you’re dancing through your emotions. The rhythm keeps you going while the lyrics make you stop and think.
Your music often brings together classic soul, modern R&B, and early-2000s pop influences. From your perspective, which parts of those sounds feel especially present in “One Sided”?
Myles Lloyd: I think the emotion definitely comes from soul music. I love melodies that feel timeless. Everything has to be timeless. Vocal delivery in the early 2000s really stood out to me, too. All I’m trying to do is have fun and spread that same feeling to whoever listens to my music.
The response to the preview has been especially big. What has it been like seeing people connect with a song that comes from such a specific emotional place?
Myles Lloyd: The moment I made this song, I knew it was gonna stick. But you never really know, you know? Seeing everyone comment saying they can’t wait for “One Sided” to drop is crazy. Knowing that me and the listeners are on the same page sonically is one of my favorite parts of making music.
You have said that you make music for overthinkers and romantics. What do you hope someone who is currently in a one-sided relationship takes from this song?
Myles Lloyd: Leave, leave, leave! Or stay and make music about it like I did. Then leave!
“Drive Me Crazy” has continued finding new audiences, including through the ENHYPEN and Pinterest partnership. What has surprised you most about the way its journey has unfolded?
Myles Lloyd: It’s definitely nothing I imagined! I always had an idea of how my music would be loved and perceived but this all just shows me not to have expectations and to just move with an open mind and positive intention. Nothing goes your way in the way you think. Forever grateful for all the love people have been showing!
You have reached a lot of milestones over the past few years, from major festival stages to collaborations and touring. What have those experiences taught you about the artist you want to become?
Myles Lloyd: I was already in love with making music, but performing and collaborating really created a different monster in me. It’s not only about me and the music, but it’s about touching the souls of people through the music. It just added an extra battery pack to my body. I’m really excited for the world to experience the future me.
With “One Sided” beginning this next chapter, what feels most important to you creatively right now?
Myles Lloyd: I know what it feels like to hear something fresh and fun, and nothing beats that feeling for me. I want to keep giving the people what they want. I want to keep giving my vulnerability, recklessness, high points, and low points. All of it is for my listeners.
