NOX’s third single, X, is a haunting electro-pop track that captures the emotional turbulence of an abruptly ended summer romance. Inspired by a true story, X reflects on the heartbreak of a situationship cut short by a hand-delivered letter, blending personal pain with poetic lyricism. With lines like “won’t be lovers, can’t be friends, let’s see how this one will end,” NOX taps into the vulnerability and confusion that comes with rushed infatuation.
Drawing on influences from artists like BANKS, Nova Norda, and Sevdaliza, NOX creates a multi-genre soundscape that is both ethereal and deeply introspective. Her delicate vocal layers glide effortlessly over subtle instrumentation, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that remains grounded in raw emotion. The inclusion of her Turkish roots, a recurring theme in her music, adds a unique dimension to the track, as she seamlessly merges cultural influences into a modern pop framework.
NOX’s ability to channel personal experiences into her music makes X a cathartic anthem. The story behind the song, involving a staycation gone wrong and an ex that lingered in the shadows, adds depth to the track’s emotional narrative. As NOX herself explains, despite the heartbreak, she found solace and creativity in the pain, turning it into a soul-stirring piece.
Speaking on X, NOX shared: “We were on a staycation with a group of this person’s friends, and she thought that was the best time to tell me she wasn’t over her ex. Of course, I left on the first train the following morning and never saw her again. She did write me a letter though as she was awful at confrontation and signed it “(Name) X”. That’s where the whole idea for ‘X’ came from. I was so heartbroken at the time, but I got an incredible song out of it. Thanks, babe!”
After gaining popularity during lockdown 2021 with her viral demo Sun Goes Down and following a high-profile performance at Izmir’s CityFest, NOX’s latest release is met with anticipation from both fans and industry insiders alike. X solidifies her place as a dark electro-pop trailblazer, with her queer, Turkish-British identity shining through as a symbol of diversity and boundary-pushing artistry. Combining influences from Billie Eilish to Lana Del Rey, NOX continues to redefine the limits of contemporary pop music, creating space for inclusivity and cultural fusion.
