Singer-songwriter, violinist, and violist based in Grand Rapids, MI Emma Bieniewicz’s new single, The Winner diverges from the typical pop narrative of victory.

It’s an intricate composition, interlacing strands of vulnerability and resilience.

Bieniewicz’s voice floats like a wisp of smoke, tinged with a yearning that’s both melancholic and captivating.

Initially paired with the delicate guitar strums, it instantly lures you into a world of heavenly tones.

The lyrics paint a picture of a soul yearning to be seen yet wary of being perceived as a mere machine going through the motions.

As the second verse unfolds, the music intensifies subtly, with a steady pulse and swirling synths that highlight the inner struggle.

This musical backdrop is both comforting and disconcerting, reflecting the character’s emotional turmoil.

The song takes a fascinating turn when Bieniewicz sings,

‘I wanna be seen / But don’t look at me / Not like the machine.’

It’s a rejection of the external validation machine, a yearning for a deeper, more meaningful connection.

The chorus, with its insistent refrain of “I wanna be something,” feels like a declaration of independence.

It’s a powerful statement about the desire to carve one’s own path, to find meaning and purpose beyond the gaze of others.

Emma Bieniewicz’s The Winner is a song that lingers long after the last note fades.

It’s a hauntingly beautiful exploration of the complexities of self-discovery, a reminder that the greatest victory lies in being true to oneself.

Emma Bieniewicz The Winner Lyrics

Feel the hold in the weather 
Looking past you tug on my sleeve 
Making more of what I’m given
Did you hear the wind last night 
I sure did

Went out there, saw the sky coming loose
Resting on the branches 
Gone so soon like you need recognition
Until it’s all on you 
All on you

I wanna be seen 
But don’t look at me 
Not like the machine 
But the winner I want to be 
The winner I’ll be 

In my doorway calling for you 
Whisper softly, breath on my skin 
Heavy heat I let it sink in 
Like you didn’t have time to but you made the commitment 

Went out there saw the flame dropping roots 
Lower towards the drive’s end 
Have me soon or I’ll keep breaking dishes 
Until I find my truth 
Find my truth 

I wanna be seen 
But don’t look at me
Not like the machine 
But the winner I want to be 
I don’t know what I’m doing 
I wanna be something