Hayley Williams of Paramore released her new album, *Ego Death*, at a Bachelorette Party in August. This marks her first project since leaving Atlantic Records after 20 years. Williams shared that writing this album helped her reconnect with her younger self, who felt she lost her power when she signed with a major label. “It freed her, so I don’t have to be arrested in that stage of development anymore,” she said.
In a unique move, fans got special access to 17 tracks through a password-protected website. They even chose the final song order before the album’s public release. The music explores themes of loneliness, belief, and growing up. Williams released the album through her new label, Post Atlantic, which is a clever nod to her past.
With this release, Williams broke the traditional rules of the music industry. “I know every pair of hands that has touched this project, and it feels like a real DIY punk rock community,” she explained. The songs tackle important social issues. For example, “True Believer” addresses racism and religious bias in the South. Other standout tracks include the raw “Glum,” the haunting “Mirtazapine,” and “Parachute,” which was added at the last minute to close the album.
Williams signed with Atlantic at just 15 when Paramore began. Their deal ended with the release of *This Is Why* in 2023. Hits like “Misery Business” and “Still Into You” have each surpassed a billion streams.
You can stream *Ego Death* now on all major music platforms.
