R&B artist Madeleine Rauch dives deep into the emotional fatigue that comes with unresolved heartbreak on her latest single, “On My Mind”. The LA-based German singer-songwriter showcases a raw vulnerability, inviting listeners into the mental tug-of-war of an on-again, off-again situationship.
The track opens with a muffled piano melody, setting the tone for a contemplative reflection on emotional burnout. Madeleine’s vocals are filled with a mix of longing and frustration, pulling the listener into her world of constant overthinking and unreciprocated love. The song captures that specific kind of heartbreak where you’re left wondering why you still care when the other person offers little in return. Her delivery on the lines “You’re on and off / You’re back and forth / Can’t do this dance anymore” paints a picture of the exhausting cycle of hope and disappointment that many can relate to.
Lyrically, “On My Mind” balances between calling out the emotional immaturity of her love interest and acknowledging the addictive nature of desire. The chorus – “I’m tired / You’re always on my mind / This healing’s annoying” – perfectly encapsulates the exhausting process of moving on. Madeleine doesn’t shy away from expressing how emotionally draining this phase can be, a perspective that many heartbreak songs gloss over.
Produced by Josh Jacobson and Jordan Sherman, the production evolves from a stripped-back, introspective beginning to a more dynamic and layered arrangement. The arpeggiated bass and vocal harmonies build tension as the song progresses, giving way to a cathartic release in the chorus. The production choices are fascinating, blending an atmospheric soundscape with an emotional edge.
Madeleine’s vocal performance is both soft and assertive, mirroring the internal conflict of someone grappling with their feelings. The pre-chorus offers some of the song’s sharpest lyrics, as Madeleine suggests, “You should go to therapy and work on your integrity”, a striking and relatable call-out for anyone dealing with an emotionally unavailable partner.
As a follow-up to her previous single, “Something Real”, “On My Mind” continues to showcase Madeleine’s ability to weave personal stories with universal themes. Her mix of classical training, honed at Berklee College of Music, and her experiences performing at European festivals such as Lollapalooza Berlin lend a maturity and depth to her songwriting that feels both fresh and timeless.
“On My Mind” is not just a song about heartbreak – it’s a reflection on the mental and emotional toll that healing takes. Madeleine Rauch’s ability to articulate this often-overlooked aspect of moving on is what sets the song apart. The single is a must-listen for anyone who has ever been stuck in the tiring push-and-pull of love that just won’t quit.
