The pop star’s critically acclaimed album HIT ME HARD AND SOFT marks a pivotal moment in Eilish's musical career. It is her first album as an adult in her twenties—a phase in her life where she has undergone significant personal and artistic growth. The album was predominantly written and produced by Eilish herself, which speaks to her increasing control over her artistry and vision. HIT ME HARD AND SOFT takes her musical experimentation to new heights, blending genres and maintaining a strong emotional core that resonates deeply with listeners. The album's true standout feature, however, is its cohesive flow. Each song contributes to a larger narrative that explores Eilish’s journey of self-discovery, vulnerability, and empowerment. The tenth and final track, “BLUE,” serves as both an emotional farewell to her past self and a reflection on her musical beginnings as an artist. With its lyrics referencing those of previous tracks, it appropriately concludes the narrative of an album brimming with personal growth.

Beyond “BLUE,” other tracks on the album demonstrate remarkable ranges of diverse sounds and themes. Songs like “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” and “LUNCH” dive into themes of friendship, love, and sexuality with catchy, infectious tunes that will have you tapping your feet. In tracks like “THE GREATEST” and “BITTERSUITE,” Eilish seamlessly blends genres, incorporating elements of power ballads and bossa novas to provoke emotion and provide an alluring atmosphere. Using electric guitar, layered vocals, dreamy guitar pedals, and a string quartet throughout the album, Eilish creates an enticing experience that pulls the listener into her world. This dynamic approach to music-making is a testament to her artistic maturity and ability to take creative risks.

 It is a glaring injustice that Eilish’s hard work and dedication to HIT ME HARD AND SOFT was overlooked by the Recording Academy. She has massively contributed to the music industry, and this album is a perfect reflection of her evolution as an artist. She did not only release an album—she created a work of art that speaks to the universal experiences of growth, vulnerability, and the complexities of adulthood. Since its release, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT has topped charts and broken world records. The viral hit “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” is the most streamed song of 2024, and the album’s overall popularity briefly made Eilish the number one artist on Spotify. It is certainly the kind of album that stays with you long after you have heard it, and the kind of album that should have earned her at least one more GRAMMY.