Anyone who knows me knows that Louis Tomlinson was my favorite member of One Direction. He’s humble, hilarious and arguably the most underrated musician that emerged from the broken-up band, despite his responsibility for many of their genius lyrics and vocals. Since the band’s split, Tomlinson has released a number of singles, from “Miss You” to “Back to You.” But on January 31, he released his first solo album, “Walls.” As a certified superfan, I’m here to give you my top five favorites on the album.
- “Always You”
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From the moment I heard this song, I knew it was going to be one that I listened to on repeat. “Always You” is extremely catchy and I love the lyrics. Tomlinson belts about a lover that he’s tried to get over, but failed because he knew it was always going to be that one person. It’s cheesy romance and I’m a sucker for it.
“Chasing the high but it was always you. Should’ve never let you go.”
- “Walls”
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As the title track to the album, this song has a special place in my heart. “Walls” has an “Oasis” vibe to it and Tomlinson gives credit to co-lead singer Noel Gallager for its sound. This song details the walls that we put up around others that tumble down for that one special person.
“These high walls never broke my soul… I watched them all come falling down for you.”
- “Defenceless”
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My largest bit of commentary on this one is that it sounds like a One Direction song — no wonder I adore it so much. “Defenceless” explains the frustration behind wanting to be loved by someone who refuses to put their guard down.
“I can’t get inside when you’re lost in your pride but you don’t have a thing to prove.”
- “Don’t Let It Break Your Heart”
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I put this song high on my list of favorites because of the message it sends. “Don’t Let It Break Your Heart” reminds us that we can get through whatever hardship we’re going through and to not let the hard times win.
“What hurts you is gonna pass and you’ll have learnt from it when it comes back. You’ll be doing better.”
- “Too Young”
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This one’s a bit of a tear-jerker. “Too Young” tells the story of a love that was ahead of its time. In it, Tomlinson reveals a romance that was everything, but that didn’t work out, leading to an apology for the hurt that he caused.
“I’ve been looking back a lot lately. Me and you is all I’ve ever known.”
To say the least, I am extremely proud of Tomlinson and his first album. I’ve been a fan of his since I was 12 and I plan on following his music career until he decides to stop producing the music that I and so many others love. This album is real, raw and perfectly embodies everything that I love about his voice, songwriting and personality.