For all of pop’s constant reinvention, there is one format that never really disappears: the piano ballad. It may drift in and out of fashion, eclipsed by dance floor anthems and chart ready hooks, but when it’s done well, few styles are as affecting. Zoey Madison’s latest single, “love like you”, is a reminder that a great ballad doesn’t need to be loud to make an impression. It simply needs to be honest.

From its opening notes, the New York singer songwriter resists the temptation to overcomplicate things.

A solitary piano introduces the melody before Madison’s voice quietly enters, setting the emotional tone before the arrangement begins to bloom. It’s a measured beginning, and one that trusts the listener enough to let the song unfold at its own pace. This confidence really pays off.

Written by Madison alongside producer Matt Chiaravalle and Aimée Proal, “love like you” grows organically, adding layers without ever losing sight of its foundation. Live strings, performed by celebrated musicians Dave Eggar on cello and Ada Pasternak on violin, while Charlie Paxson’s restrained drumming provides just enough movement to carry it forward.

The real revelation, however, is Madison herself. With a four octave vocal range, she has every opportunity to turn the song into a showcase of technical ability. Instead, she makes a far more interesting choice. Her performance has real control and expression, allowing the emotion behind each lyric to emerge naturally. She sings with the assurance of someone who understands that the most memorable performances aren’t always the biggest. They’re the ones that feel believable.

While contemporary enough to sit comfortably alongside today’s pop releases, it carries echoes of an era when songs were built around melody and storytelling. Madison’s admiration for legendary vocalists such as Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland is evident.

Producer Matt Chiaravalle deserves considerable credit for recognising exactly what the track requires. Recorded at Flux Studios and Mercy Sound in New York City’s East Village and mastered by Joe Lambert, the finished production feels polished while retaining the warmth of a live performance.

In many ways, “love like you” arrives at an unexpected moment. Summer is usually dominated by songs built for festivals, road trips, and endless repeats. Madison offers something entirely different – a song for quieter evenings, reflective walks and those smaller moments. It won’t compete for the loudest chorus of the season.

With this latest release, Zoey Madison demonstrates that timeless songwriting, thoughtful production, and an emotionally grounded performance remain a powerful combination.

Connect with Zoey Madison:

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