WBS Review
Beautiful Things by Benson Boone
Boone’s raw emotion shines in tenderly crafted ballad
By WorldBestSong · Published
Written with AI assistance and published by WorldBestSong. Read how we review.
WBS rating
4.0out of 5
The earnest songwriting and strong vocal performance make for an undeniably compelling pop track.
We publish a full WBS Review only for songs we rate 3 stars or higher (3 = solid, 4 = great, 5 = essential). A song without one hasn't been rated low; it just hasn't been reviewed yet.
Listeners
Not rated by listeners yet.
The listener rating is separate from ours and is never changed by a WBS Review. Rate it yourself →
‘Beautiful Things’ establishes itself immediately with understated piano chords that build into a driving, layered production; it is clearly designed to showcase Benson Boone's voice. The arrangement feels both intimate and expansive, utilising subtle electronic textures alongside the organic instrumentation to create a contemporary feel. Dynamics play a key role throughout, shifting between quiet introspection and powerfully delivered choruses which keep the listener engaged without resorting to predictable shifts or excessive bombast. Close attention has been paid to sonic clarity: every instrument occupies its own space within the mix, contributing to a polished overall soundscape.
Lyrically, 'Beautiful Things' grapples with themes of resilience and hope in the face of adversity, using vivid imagery to portray moments of darkness interspersed with flashes of light. The song avoids cliché by focusing on specific details rather than broad statements – a testament to thoughtful songwriting. While universal in its sentimentality, there’s a genuine vulnerability present in the narrative, making it relatable even when dealing with challenging subject matter. It doesn't offer easy answers but instead acknowledges the complexities inherent in finding positivity during difficult times, striking an authentic tone.
Benson Boone’s vocal performance is undoubtedly the centrepiece of ‘Beautiful Things’. He displays impressive control across his range, conveying raw emotion through nuanced phrasing and dynamic variation. There’s a palpable sincerity in his delivery that elevates the material beyond standard pop fare; he fully commits to the emotional core of each line. Backing vocals are used sparingly, providing support where needed while ensuring they don't overshadow the primary vocal track. The production places emphasis on Boone’s timbre, allowing for both gentle whispers and belted high notes to resonate effectively.
The bridge serves as the pivotal moment in the song, transitioning from quiet reflection into a powerful declaration of self-belief. A subtle tempo shift adds momentum here, propelling the song towards its final chorus. This section demonstrates how carefully structured 'Beautiful Things' is: every element feels deliberately placed to maximise impact. Though not particularly innovative harmonically or melodically, this arrangement avoids predictability by using dynamics and pacing to keep things interesting - small touches contribute significantly to the overall effect.
‘Beautiful Things’ is aimed squarely at fans of contemporary singer-songwriter pop with confessional themes – think artists who prioritise vulnerability and honest expression over overt spectacle. Those drawn to artists like Lewis Capaldi or Ed Sheeran will likely find something to appreciate in Benson Boone’s approach. It also appeals to listeners seeking music that tackles challenging topics with sensitivity and optimism. While undoubtedly polished, it retains an accessibility that allows it to connect widely across audiences familiar with mainstream radio formats but open to more emotionally resonant storytelling.
Ultimately, ‘Beautiful Things’ showcases Benson Boone’s potential as a significant voice within modern pop. Its earnestness might seem somewhat formulaic to some; however, his ability to deliver genuine emotion through well-crafted songwriting and impressive vocal delivery makes for an enjoyable listening experience. The track successfully balances commercial appeal with artistic integrity, marking him as one to watch in the coming years. Released on a single alongside no other tracks, it stands alone as a testament to a songwriter’s ability to communicate directly from the heart.
Pros
- Strong emotional core
- Well-placed dynamic shifts
- Genuine vocal performance
- Thoughtful lyrical imagery
Cons
- Harmonic predictability
Mood:reflectivehopefulintimateeveninguplifting
What do you think?
Read listener reviews of Beautiful Things and add your own rating.
Spotted an error? Report a problem with this review and we'll correct or withdraw it.