Receiving admiration for her voice since childhood, 23-year-old Halle Bailey debuted as a soloist with the single, “Angel,” on August 4th. This debut followed her remarkable portrayal of Ariel in the live-action The Little Mermaid, as well as many years recording covers and original music with her sister, Chloe. For years, Halle’s talent has been evident. This made her debut all the more anticipated.

“Angel,” an R&B song attended by a tender piano, has the heightened emotions of a ballad. Undeniably, Halle’s voice is breathtaking, reminding listeners that her vocal abilities are ever flourishing.

Containing only a few scene changes, “Angel” is a rather simple video, lending focus to Halle and her message. At the beginning, the background is dark and Halle’s expressions display vulnerability. Once the chorus hits, Halle goes from lying in an empty room to standing among light and clouds, her expression revealing strength and perseverance. Constantly beside Halle are other Black women who dance with passion and fluidity.

During the bridge, Halle and the other women climb stairs together. They don’t reach the top, but they are on their way. As the video ends, moments from early home videos are compiled, underlining Halle’s dream of being a singer and her family, who have always been by her side.

About the song, Halle said it’s an affirmation that she, and what’s doing in her life, is important. Since Halle’s been in the limelight, countless people have been swarming her with their assessments and criticisms. Many negative opinions, which were fueled by Halle being a Black women, escalated when Halle was announced as the live-action Ariel.

However, “Angel,” co-written by Halle, emphasizes her strength and endurance with lines such as, “angels make a way somehow.” Pride in her identity also shines in the song with lines including, “Black girl here, black girl with the black girl hair. Took a little sun kiss just to look like this.” In “Angel” Halle radiates confidence in who she is, but she also strives to make her listeners feel accepted and proud of who they are, especially individuals who are made to feel less than because of their skin color.

With visuals only adding to the message of the song, Halle’s “Angel” is substantial, empowering, and sincere. This debut proves that Halle has much to offer as an artist and is more than deserving of her success.