First Listen: Troy Javelona's 'DARLING'

Troy Javelona is a name that not many people are familiar with but swiftly that will change, still relatively early in his music career – he has been releasing music since 2023,  his first drop of the year 'WHAT'S A GUY GOTTA DO', shared last month struck a note, and he has quickly followed it up with 'DARLING.’

The 23-year-old British-Filipino singer, songwriter and producer, solely worked on ‘DARLING’ from the comforts of his home in his bedroom studio. As you listen to the track, this is proven by its intimate and deeply personal feel.

The production is stripped back, the piano notes underneath, are playing a soft tremolo, to provide a platform for Troy as a vocalist to be front and centre. He expressed his vulnerability earnestly, leaning into the discomfort, and surrendering to it as he floats.

The warm textures of the instrument provide safety amidst heartbreak like a life raft thrown to you when you’re drowning at sea.

Artist Perception

Troy on this alternative R&B offering gifts us both the promise of summer, and also an exploration of being young in love, and what it feels like when your heart breaks.

Sharing his perspective in the aftermath of a breakup – sad, bittersweet and melancholy, Troy remembers what was in a beautiful and languid way, but he holds the lessons learned close to his chest.

“DARLING was created during a rough time after a long-term relationship I had. The relationship ended so abruptly, so there were many unanswered questions. Whilst sitting in my thoughts, I decided to write and produce about it”, Troy explains.

“I wanted the sounds to sonically reflect my emotions, which is why you can hear a lot of soft pianos and bells, it portrays that innocence and vulnerability.

“The production and recording were all done in my bedroom studio, so I was able to tap into my emotions. I remember tearing up after recording the counter-melody because of how beautiful it sounded. That’s when I knew I was creating something so special. The songwriting taps into the unanswered questions, specifically the what-ifs.

He added: “I feel that authenticity was achieved in this song and I’m proud that I wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable and create such a personal track. So I want this song to feel like a warm hug to the listener”.

Visuals

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkLolDOMF1s

The accompanying music video, directed by Ray Fiasco, who has worked with Pa Salieu, Knucks, Dizzee Rascal, Ms Banks, is shot in a minimalistic way which favours an atmospheric approach.

Set in an abandoned airport surrounded by greenery and wide spaces, it supports the overall aching theme of loneliness that occurs when you break up with someone.

“Visually, we shot in an abandoned airport with grey, stormy weather to reinforce the feeling of isolation — almost how I felt after leaving that relationship”, Troy explains.

“We didn’t plan to shoot in those extreme conditions but we were so happy with the end result, almost like we paid for the weather”.

Listen here