On June 19, 2026– Indie-rock artist, Harley released his new infectious single “Tell Me You Love Me” that encapsulates the raw emotions of vulnerability, self-worth, validation, and the need for reassurance. “Tell Me You Love Me” can be interpreted in different ways. This track can be seen as something a musician embraces when wanting to be seen in the industry and hoping their music uplifts fans. You can also look at the single as someone who has mental exhaustion by not speaking about their emotions due to fear of others not understanding. The inner critic in ourselves can truly be damaging, but sometimes empowerment comes from the being able to openly ask for help from others.
“‘Tell Me You Love Me’ is a search for validation and fulfilment. Something I think we all feel but instead put on a brave face and ignore. However, I love when songs have double meanings and can be interpreted by the listener in multiple ways. I think for me the song serves in the light of a musician searching for fans and validation. Seeking sold out shows, people who truly connect with the music and perhaps the strength to be unapologetically goofy and weird.” – Harley
Interviewer: “Tell Me You Love Me” explores the search for validation. Was there a specific moment in your life that sparked the idea for this song?
HARLEY: “I wrote this song a few years ago now, at the time I felt stuck in a job I wasn’t sure I loved anymore and struggled with the idea that my music wasn’t progressing as fast as I wanted it to.
After writing the song I later realized I viewed the lyrics from the perspective as an artist seeking validation from fans and people who connected with my music. Writing songs can be funny and therapeutic like that.“
Interviewer: You mention that people often put on a brave face instead of acknowledging their need for reassurance. Why do you think admitting that vulnerability can be so difficult?
HARLEY: “I don’t pretend to be an expert in this, but I’ve learned that communication is key. You may think that you’re being strong and noble by bottling up these emotions inside, but it always blows up worse than it needed to be. Especially when a simple conversation early on could’ve solved the whole thing.”
Interviewer: The repeated refrain of “tell me you love me” feels almost desperate but universally relatable. How did you strike the balance between honesty and creating something euphoric?
HARLEY: “Most memorable hooks in songs, I’ve realized just use common sayings. I wanted the song to feel raw but memorable in a way that it’s something people already say. I’m not entirely sure where the line came from but it felt right and stuck.“
Interviewer: The song tackles self-doubt, yet the instrumentation feels uplifting and infectious. Why did you choose to frame heavier emotions within such an energetic indie-rock sound?
HARLEY: “I really love the juxtaposition in songs like this. Using an upbeat happy sound to convey darker meanings seems very poetic. I guess I would also contribute it to portraying that idea of putting on a brave face.”
Interviewer: Which musical influences helped shape the atmosphere of this track?
HARLEY: “This song was very inspired by the works of The 1975, Holy Holy and The Vanns. I’m a big fan of all of them and always wanted to try this indie/rock/pop sound. I think the jangelly guitar and airy synth go a long way to help create that vibe.”
Interviewer: The need to be loved and understood seems to be at the core of this track. What do you hope listeners learn about themselves through it?
HARLEY: “I hope listeners can connect with the song however they like. Whether it’s about a relationship or anything else. Is there something that you’re feeling insecure about and haven’t said anything? It doesn’t have to be something big, or maybe it’s something from the past. A simple conversation can’t hurt.”
Interviewer: If someone listens to this song while struggling with self-worth, what would you want them to take away from it?
HARLEY: “I would hope that they could see that they’re not alone. Everyone goes through similar feelings now and again. It’s okay to talk about it and ask for help. That’s being brave, not bottling it up inside. I would hope that they talk to the people around them, that’s how these things get better.“
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