Australian rapper-singer The Kid LAROI is baring his heart on a surprise new single titled “A Cold Play.” The 22-year-old artist (real name Charlton Howard) dropped the track with little warning, announcing it just a day prior on social media. “A Cold Play,” arrives quickly on the heels of LAROI’s recent song “She Doesn’t Need To Know” (released only a week earlier), continuing a flurry of new music from the rising star. Notably, the emotional track leaked online ahead of its official release, prompting LAROI to share it — much to the excitement of fans.
Clocking in at about two minutes, “A Cold Play” packs an emotional punch. LAROI pours out raw feelings over a moody, cathartic beat, repeating the poignant refrain “I can’t fix you… I miss you” in the chorus. The title’s play on words has not gone unnoticed — as LAROI sings about not being able to “fix” a fractured relationship, many listeners see a nod to Coldplay’s classic song “Fix You.” The heartbreak theme has fans speculating the song is inspired by LAROI’s recent breakup with fellow singer Tate McRae. (Fans even noted Tate sang “Fix You” live around the same time LAROI teased this track — a coincidence that has only fueled the rumors.)
Beyond the backstory, “A Cold Play” showcases LAROI’s knack for channeling personal pain into catchy, relatable music. Co-written by LAROI and producer KBeaZy, the single is the latest in a string of tracks he’s rolled out this summer, keeping listeners hyped for his forthcoming project. With “A Cold Play,” The Kid LAROI proves he’s unafraid to wear his heart on his sleeve — and fans are definitely listening.