Leon Thomas teams up with the multi-talented Halle (Bailey) for their first collaboration, “RATHER BE ALONE,” a despondent yet beautiful mix of contemporary R&B and adult contemporary. Released on April 18, 2025, under EZMNY Records/Motown Records.
This three-minute track showcases the duo’s ability to convey raw emotion through their vocals and storytelling. Produced by Leon Thomas, Freaky Rob, and D. Phelps, the song is a slow-burning confession that unfolds with each listen, revealing intricate layers of instrumentation and lyrical depth.
Peter Lee Johnson’s delicate string arrangements add subtle yet impactful touches to the soft and steady instrumental, enhancing the song’s emotional resonance. Leon Thomas, fresh off the success of his critically acclaimed album “MUTT,” brings his introspective artistry to the forefront, while Halle’s airy and emotive delivery complements his performance perfectly. Together, they create a poignant narrative of a relationship in turmoil.
The story at the heart of “RATHER BE ALONE” is a tug-of-war between two perspectives. Leon portrays someone who has emotionally checked out of the relationship, unwilling to endure the pain of a “broken home,” while Halle embodies the fear of letting go and the hope of reconciliation. Their contrasting viewpoints create a compelling dynamic that resonates deeply with listeners.
Produced by Leon Thomas, Freaky Rob & D. Phelps
April 18, 2025
1 Song, 3 minutes
EZMNY Records/Motown Records; ℗ 2025 UMG Recordings, Inc. & EZMNY Records, LLC
Lyrics
[Chorus: Leon Thomas, Leon Thomas & Halle]
I’d rather be alone, rather be alone
Than in a broken home
I’d rather be alone
Tryin’ to do this for the both of us on my own
[Post-Chorus: Leon Thomas & Halle]
Oh
Oh-oh-oh, oh
Oh-oh-oh, oh
[Refrain: Leon Thomas]
Watchin’ it all, catchin’ your fall
Alluding every lesson, losin’ all direction
Details matter, I pay attention, oh
[Verse 1: Leon Thomas]
Takin’ all your money, eatin’ all your dough
Always leave me wantin’ more
‘Cause you’re unpredictable, and I’m used to having control
Risk is acquired, I pay the toll
Just numb the pain, touchin’ on some Ms
Make your own bread like the good father said
Watch your homies, release all your stress
My heart’s bulletproof, I’m wearing a vest
[Chorus: Leon Thomas, Halle & Both]
I’d rather be alone, rather be alone (Oh)
Than in a broken home
I’d rather be alone (Oh, be alone; ah)
Rather be alone
Tryin’ to do this for the both of us on my own
[Post-Chorus: Leon Thomas & Halle, Halle, Leon Thomas]
Oh
Oh-oh-oh, oh (Alone)
Oh-oh-oh, oh (Oh, yeah; ah)
Oh
[Verse 2: Halle]
I take my time losin’ my mind
I’m thinkin’ of you all of the time (Time, time)
‘Cause without you I’m crazy
You’re dangerous, my baby, we’re broken, but beautiful
So don’t you give up, up on me, baby
Wrap your arms tight around me and remember
Without you I’m afraid, ooh
[Chorus: Halle, Leon Thomas & Both]
But you’d rather be alone, you’d rather be alone
Than in a broken home (Oh)
You’d rather be alone (Ah)
Tryin’ to do this for the both of us on my own
[Post-Chorus: Leon Thomas & Halle, Halle]
Oh
Oh-oh-oh, oh
Oh-oh-oh, oh
Ah
[Outro: Leon Thomas & Halle]
Watchin’ it all, catchin’ your fall (I’d rather be alone)
Alluding every lesson, losin’ all direction
Details matter I pay attention, oh
