'Tainted Heart' sets the stage for FAUXstalgia

WITH a piano and a heavy heart, South Africa’s latest emerging talent, Sarah Pearson, takes a significant step into the spotlight with her debut single Tainted Heart.

- WEEKEND ARGUS REPORTER

Released on all major platforms, this emotional anthem sets the tone for her upcoming album FAUXstalgia, expected to drop in late 2025. The track showcases a captivating blend of ‘80s musical influences tinged with diary-style honesty, a testament to Pearson’s artistic vision and raw emotional experience.

Written during a tumultuous emotional period, Tainted Heart unfolds like a confessional voice memo transformed into a powerful piano ballad.

“The song is about staying close to someone, even when you know they’re the one hurting you. It felt more like journaling than writing - it just poured out.” The rapid inspiration saw her craft the entire song in just 30 minutes before heading to her father’s home studio the following morning, where producer David Jones helped shape its lush, emotional core.