By Colin 
Holly Rolfe is making a bold statement with her latest single, ‘Still Breathing’. The Leeds-based pop artist delivers a powerful anthem about reclaiming independence after a toxic relationship. With sharp lyricism and a dynamic melody, she captures the emotional journey of leaving behind an unhealthy situation and emerging stronger than ever.
The song reflects on the suffocating nature of a past relationship, where broken promises and immaturity led to inevitable disappointment. Instead of dwelling on the hurt, Holly flips the narrative, transforming past frustration into a celebration of freedom. ‘Still Breathing’ is not just a breakup song—it is a final full stop, a declaration that the past no longer holds any control.
By playing with classic relationship clichés, Holly highlights the absurdity of lingering attachments to those who never truly valued her. This clever lyrical approach, combined with an upbeat and infectious melody, makes ‘Still Breathing’ a track that feels both deeply personal and widely relatable. Fans of self-assured pop anthems will find plenty to love in this latest release, as it carries an energy that is both cathartic and uplifting.
An Eight-Month Journey to the Perfect Song
The writing process for ‘Still Breathing’ spanned eight months, with the hook coming to Holly naturally in the early stages. However, refining the verses and structuring the song took time. At one point, she worried that the lyrics might sound too immature or unconventional. Letting go of those doubts proved to be a breakthrough moment.
Once she embraced the creative freedom to play with clichés and lean into the song’s natural energy, everything fell into place. A key part of the process came from the support of her flatmates, who insisted on helping her finalise the lyrics. What started as a solo project quickly turned into a collaborative and joyous experience, filled with laughter and shared creativity. That fun, lighthearted energy is woven into the fabric of ‘Still Breathing’, making it all the more engaging for listeners.
Holly’s growth as an artist has been evident in her recent successes. Over the past year, she has opened for Cian Ducrot at The Piece Hall, performed at The Cavern Club in Liverpool, and even sung live for Strictly professionals Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu. With each performance, she continues to solidify her place in the UK’s rising pop scene.
In a previous interview, Holly mentioned her passion for exploring the nature of her voice and layering harmonies to create a naturalistic sound. This dedication to her craft is evident in ‘Still Breathing’, where her vocal delivery and intricate harmonies add depth to the track.
‘Still Breathing’ is a testament to her ability to turn personal experiences into universal, empowering messages. It is confident, sharp, and unafraid to call out the past while moving forward. With this release, Holly Rolfe proves once again that she is an artist to watch. You can pre-save ‘Still Breathing’ here.