The first day—and the days after—a release still feel a bit surreal to me. "A Little Kinder" is my third single, but I haven't quite gotten used to the experience yet. Releasing a song is both beautiful and frightening. The second you let a song out into the world, it no longer belongs to you—it belongs to everyone who listens to it.

The story of the song was mine, but now it lives its own life. If you listen to it, it's yours. I am no longer in control, and that feeling is both terrifying and beautiful. All I can do is wait for the emotions to settle and enjoy the process as much as I can. And there's so much to enjoy!

The response to "A Little Kinder" has been amazing. I've been overwhelmed by all the messages I've received from people who've listened to the song and shared how much it means to them. I think every singer and songwriter, in some way, is driven by the hope that what they create will resonate with someone—and for me, that hope is so important. Hearing your stories and feedback makes me feel so, so grateful.

As I shared last week, my intention when writing "A Little Kinder" was to silence the self-critical voice in my head and learn to be kinder to myself. I know we all experience moments like that, and I hoped this song could inspire some self-kindness. That's why your responses have meant so much to me. Hearing that the song resonated with you, gave you a little lift, or helped you feel better about yourself is everything I could've wished for.

The song has been received so well, but one response in particular has been very special to me. NRK P3 chose "A Little Kinder" as their "Song of the Week"! Hearing my song on the radio station I grew up listening to feels surreal and emotional. Growing up, P3 introduced me to music that lifted me up and gave me hope—and now my own song is playing there. It's truly a full-circle moment.

Thank you so much for listening, for your support, and for all the kind messages you've sent my way. I'm so grateful.

Enjoy your week, and tune in soon!

– JOA