Headlock
If you’ve been on TikTok lately, chances are you’ve heard Imogen Heap’s “Headlock” making waves again. Originally released in 2005 as the opening track to her album Speak for Yourself, the song feels like it’s been pulled out of the indie archives and dropped into the spotlight for a whole new generation to obsess over—and honestly, it’s about time.
First off, Headlock is peak Imogen Heap: ethereal vocals, layered production, and that mix of emotional vulnerability and bold creativity that just hits differently. The song feels like it exists in its own world, where every element is precisely placed but still leaves enough room for you to get lost in it. From the pulsating synths to the delicate harmonies, it’s the kind of track that feels both intimate and cinematic at the same time.
Lyrically, “Headlock” is classic Heap—sharp, poetic, and just cryptic enough to leave you interpreting it differently every time you listen. Lines like “You say too late to start, got your heart in a headlock” cut deep, encapsulating that feeling of being trapped by your own doubts or fears. It’s relatable without being overly direct, which makes it even more powerful.
What’s making it pop off on TikTok? Probably the way it perfectly captures this mix of yearning and confidence, which TikTok loves to tap into. Whether it’s used for aesthetic montages, emotional storytelling, or just vibey edits, the song lends itself to creating a mood. Plus, let’s be real—Heap’s vocal delivery is so unique that it’s impossible not to stop scrolling and listen.
But what’s cool about Headlock going viral again is that it’s introducing more people to Imogen Heap’s genius. For anyone who only knows her from “Hide and Seek” or the Jason Derulo remix (ugh), this track is a reminder of just how much she’s always been ahead of her time.
So, if you haven’t yet, throw on Headlock—preferably with headphones on and the volume turned all the way up. It’s a sonic time capsule that feels fresh even nearly two decades later.
IMOGEN HEAP - HEADLOCK
RATING - 9.4/10
GENRE - Alt Rock, Electronic, Pop, Alt/Indie