Onoleigh’s 'OK Later': The Breakup Anthem We All Needed

With her latest release, “OK Later,” rising star Onoleigh steps confidently into the spotlight, delivering a track that brims with attitude and resilience. This song isn’t your standard breakup ballad; it’s a clever, bold anthem for anyone ready to turn heartbreak into empowerment. Right from the opening notes, a classic banjo lead brings a touch of timeless country flair, blending seamlessly with Onoleigh’s modern pop-country vibe—a unique sound that will resonate with die-hard country fans and mainstream listeners alike.

Photographer Logen Christopher

Onoleigh’s powerhouse vocals are front and center, and she knows exactly how to wield them. Her voice, rich with personality and control, commands attention without losing any of the vulnerability essential to the song’s message. She captures the perfect balance of defiance and playfulness, inviting listeners to join her on a cathartic journey of self-assured independence. The song’s storyline is equally relatable: as her ex is off with other girls, she’s reclaiming her confidence, striding into the same bar where he can’t help but notice her “looking better than ever.” It’s a deliciously satisfying revenge, not through confrontation, but through self-assured confidence—a sentiment many listeners are bound to find empowering.

The chorus, “let me feel my feelings, I’ll be OK later,” is the heart of the song, reinforcing the idea that it’s okay to feel every bit of the hurt, while still stepping out and living life fully. Onoleigh’s lyrics, co-written with Grammy-nominated Emile Ghantous, Emmy-winner Josh Goode, and 4x Platinum songwriter Sam SZND, speak directly to anyone going through the turbulent aftermath of heartbreak. Her delivery is unfiltered and full of emotion, serving as a rallying cry for anyone ready to turn pain into power.

The track was recorded in Nashville’s historic Layman Drug Company, a space that seems to infuse the track with a special authenticity and grit. The production, both polished and full of texture, complements Onoleigh’s vocals and storytelling perfectly. The song’s carefree yet fierce spirit resonates long after the last note, proving that “OK Later” is more than just a song—it’s an anthem for reclaiming your confidence and embracing every messy, exhilarating step along the way.

With “OK Later,” Onoleigh is asserting herself as a new powerhouse in pop-country, showcasing a voice and style that feel fresh yet universally relatable. This song captures a timeless feeling, and Onoleigh’s take on it is both clever and refreshingly confident. In her own words: “‘OK Later’ is about embracing the in-between. I’m still feeling it, but I’m not staying home crying about it. I’m dressing up, going out, and letting myself feel everything—messy, fun, and fierce. It’s my way of saying, ‘I’ll be fine later, but tonight, I’m living in the moment.’”

This track is for anyone ready to strut past the heartbreak, head held high, showing everyone—including that ex—exactly what they’re missing. "OK Later" feels like the start of something big for Onoleigh, and if this song is any indication, she’s here to stay.