Copyright cover photo: © Hayley Mikell
Alt-pop artist Caroline Romano is back with her latest single, “Pretty Boys,” released today on all streaming platforms. The track is another powerful addition to her growing catalog, following hits like “Body Bag,” “Doesn’t Matter,” and “Used By You.” Known for her ability to blend raw emotion with catchy melodies, Caroline’s new release shows off her unique ability to explore the complexities of love, loss, and everything in between.
At just 23 years old, Nashville-based Caroline Romano has been making waves in the alt-pop scene, and “Pretty Boys” is a perfect example of why she’s quickly becoming one of the genre’s rising stars. The song brings listeners on a journey through the emotional highs and lows of heartbreak, capturing that intense feeling of confusion and longing that comes with falling for someone who isn’t quite on the same page.
A heartbreak anthem with layers of emotion
“Pretty Boys” starts off with a stripped-back guitar, creating an intimate, almost fragile atmosphere. Caroline’s evocative vocals draw you in right from the beginning, as she begins to tell a personal story of love gone wrong. The song then builds into something more explosive—an anthemic burst of energy that mirrors the overwhelming emotions of heartache. The chorus hits hard with a sense of urgency and passion, creating a catchy, sing-along moment that anyone who’s experienced a confusing relationship will immediately relate to.
The emotional duality of the song is something Caroline captures beautifully. It’s both tender and intense, a perfect reflection of how love can feel like a rollercoaster of highs and lows. There’s an undeniable energy in the track, yet it still feels personal and vulnerable, a trademark of Caroline’s style.
A story of love, loss, and lessons learned
In her own words, “Pretty Boys” is a “dramatic story with a terribly disappointing ending.” Caroline explains that the song recounts a moment in her life where the lines between friendship and romance got blurred. It’s a cautionary tale, one about not always trusting the signals someone might send you, especially when you’re left feeling like you’re not the only one in the picture. “Just because you’ve kissed him doesn’t mean you should do it again,” she sings, offering a blunt but relatable message.
For Caroline, the song feels like a “high school crush at 22,” capturing that feeling of youthful hope, confusion, and eventual disappointment. Though the story is deeply personal, Caroline’s ability to tap into universal emotions makes it easy for listeners to see themselves in her words. Whether it’s the rush of infatuation or the sting of heartbreak, “Pretty Boys” speaks to anyone who has been through the messy, complicated emotions that come with falling for someone who isn’t quite right for you.
Caroline Romano’s artistic growth
“Pretty Boys” is a great addition to Caroline Romano’s growing discography. Since releasing her debut album Oddities and Prodigies in 2022, she’s continued to evolve as an artist, mixing haunting ballads with fiery alt-rock anthems. With the release of her 2023 EP A Brief Epic, Caroline showed that she’s not afraid to explore new sounds and take risks with her music.
Her ability to shift between different musical styles is one of her standout qualities, and “Pretty Boys” is no exception. The track’s balance of stripped-back, emotional moments and high-energy choruses shows her versatility and deep understanding of how to craft a song that resonates with listeners. It’s also clear that Caroline is always growing as an artist, as “Pretty Boys” feels like a natural progression from her previous work while also introducing new layers of her artistry.
A relatable experience for many
While “Pretty Boys” tells a very specific story of a young woman navigating the confusing emotions of heartbreak, it’s a feeling that many listeners will relate to. The song’s lyrics dive into the complexities of unrequited love and the confusion of mixed signals, which makes it a perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever been in a similar situation. Caroline’s honesty and vulnerability in her songwriting make her music feel like a diary entry that anyone can read and feel connected to.
This kind of rawness is what sets Caroline apart from many other artists in the alt-pop scene. Her music is unfiltered and real, tapping into the full range of human emotions—from the highs of a new crush to the lows of heartbreak. It’s this emotional honesty that has helped her build a strong connection with her fans, who appreciate her willingness to be open about the struggles and triumphs of young adulthood.
Caroline’s live performances: High-energy and impactful
Beyond her impressive songwriting and studio recordings, Caroline Romano has also earned a reputation for her high-energy live performances. She has graced iconic Nashville venues like The Basement East and The End, where her passionate performances have left fans wanting more. In 2023, she even completed her first U.S. tour, supporting bands like Grayscale and Smallpools. Her live shows have become an integral part of her artistry, as she brings the same raw emotion and energy from her studio recordings to the stage.
Her ability to captivate an audience with her presence is a testament to her talent as both a singer and performer. As she continues to gain more recognition, it’s clear that Caroline’s live performances will play a big role in her rise to fame.
Final thoughts
With “Pretty Boys,” Caroline Romano has once again proven herself as one of the most exciting voices in alt-pop today. The song’s blend of emotional depth, relatable lyrics, and high-energy sound makes it a standout track in her growing discography. It’s clear that Caroline has a unique ability to connect with her audience, whether through her powerful lyrics or her unforgettable performances. If you haven’t yet, now is the perfect time to get to know this rising star and dive into her music. “Pretty Boys” is just the latest example of why Caroline Romano is an artist to watch in 2025.
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