Stefanie Michaela shines with soulful optimism on “Better With Time”
Some songs carry with them the unmistakable feeling of arrival, a statement of where an artist has been and a clear sign of where they’re going. Stefanie Michaela’s new single, “Better With Time,” is exactly that. At three and a half minutes, it’s a confident, soulful pop anthem that looks inward while moving forward, wrapping its optimism in a sound that feels both timeless and fresh.
From the very first notes, Michaela’s voice commands the spotlight. There’s an effortless swagger in her delivery, a combination of power and control that draws easy comparisons to the likes of Mariah Carey. She doesn’t just hit notes, she inhabits them, stretching each phrase with emotion and poise. Her tone balances warmth and strength, carrying the song’s message of resilience with clarity and conviction.
Musically, “Better With Time” leans into a soulful pop framework with just enough R&B influence to give it depth and groove. The production is sleek but not overpolished, allowing Michaela’s vocals to take center stage while subtle touches such the shimmer of keys, the snap of crisp beats, the understated bassline, add texture and richness. The chorus is where the track truly blossoms, an earworm refrain that feels instantly classic, tapping into the golden era of 90s pop but updating it with modern finesse.
Lyrically, the single is as introspective as it is forward-looking. Michaela reflects on growth and perseverance, embracing the notion that struggles and setbacks aren’t obstacles, but stepping stones. The words carry the weight of lived experience while radiating optimism, never veering into cliché. Instead, they strike with honesty, mirroring the real process of navigating change and finding strength in self-belief.
The 90s influence is undeniable in the best way possible! But the production choices and contemporary arrangements ensure it feels current, not retro. It’s a fusion that taps into a collective sense of familiarity while presenting something entirely her own.
“Better With Time” also hints at the thematic richness of Michaela’s upcoming EP, Turning Pages. If this track is any indication, the project will be as much about personal storytelling as it is about musical craft, blending the lessons of the past with the excitement of new beginnings. The single feels like a mission statement, proof that Michaela has found her voice and is ready to let it soar.
Stefanie Michaela doesn’t just sing about perseverance; she embodies it. And with this release, she makes it clear she’s stepping confidently into her next chapter, armed with resilience, heart, and a sound that resonates long after the final note. We’re so excited for more, but for now, click those links below to listen in and follow along for more!
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