You Don’t Have To

Pop-R&B ballad with a slow swung pulse, warm sub-bass and muted electric piano in the verses; pre-chorus opens with rising strings and claps, chorus lands on stacked harmonies and a soft kick pulse. Vocal is intimate close-mic with breathy doubles, gentle ad-lib echoes, and a delay throw on the hook phrase. Ear candy includes reversed piano swells into the chorus, tiny finger snaps, and a final lift of choir-like hums. Mix is warm, glossy, and emotionally up-front.