He’s riding high on the success of his Eurovision 2019 victory. With more music on its way, Duncan Laurence is only just getting started. And finally, fans can now have a listen to the acoustic version of his winning song “Arcade”.
Reaching over 60 million streams on Spotify, “Arcade” is already one of the most-streamed Eurovision entries in history. But with the release of the acoustic version, which comes as part of his special vinyl release later this month, fans now have another option when going to stream the song.
While everyone’s eager to hear new music from the Eurovision winner, the acoustic version of “Arcade” is indeed the first post-Eurovision release from the Dutch singer. However, Duncan has noted on Instagram that he’s currently busy writing new songs. So there’s definitely more to come very soon.
Now that the acoustic version is finally available on streaming platforms, it’s even easier for fans to enjoy Duncan’s stunning vocal talent. Previously, there were only videos of him performing the stripped-back edit on YouTube. With his first performance back in March knocking up more than 1.5 million views, it’s clear there’s love for his acoustic delivery of the track.
Following the initial release of “Arcade”, some fans expressed worries about whether Duncan could bring the emotion across on the Eurovision stage. But with his first live performance of the acoustic version, Duncan showed everyone why he was well-deserving of his selection to represent The Netherlands. His vocal delivery sounds even better live than in the studio recording.
The benefit of the acoustic version is that Duncan’s feelings can be transported to the listener in an entirely new perspective. Stripping back the layers of production and editing that were added before the song’s release helps focus the listener on Duncan’s voice and the message he’s trying to portray.
Moreover, the acoustic version also fits within the picture that Duncan tried to draw with the themes of the music video. Just like being naked and vulnerable through the use of imagery, the acoustic version is the vocal counterpart to that.
Duncan Laurence — “Arcade (Acoustic Version)”
During the 3:19 minutes-long track, the piano melody is quite prominent. Further instruments, such as violins, add more texture to the whole atmosphere.
The strength of Duncan’s voice is particularly clear after the second chorus. There’s nothing but the piano melody in the background, while Duncan’s voice is all that carries the track. In that moment, the richness of his voice is shown in an incredibly powerful way.
Although Duncan took some time to drop the new acoustic version, it’s definitely been worth the wait.
What do you think? Does the acoustic version live up to your expectations? And are you excited to hear new music from the Eurovision winner? Tell us your thoughts below!
Better than the original maybe
I’m listening to this, and somehow, whenever Duncan sings ‘all i know, all i know’ I hear ‘all i nyow, all i nyow’ and it made this version a little more adorable.
Love it!
Beautiful version of beautiful song, can’t wait for more stuff from Duncan <3