"Liar" is a song by American singer Jelly Roll, released on August 2, 2024, as the second single from his tenth studio album, Beautifully Broken. It was written by Jelly Roll himself, Ben Johnson, Ashley Gorley and Taylor Phillips, and produced by Zach Crowell.
Background
Jelly Roll debuted the song at the Grand Ole Opry on April 16, 2024, during which he told the audience that he might not ever release it.[1] He performed it again at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards on May 16, 2024.[2] In an interview prior to the ACMs, he said he was still "on the fence" about releasing the song.[3] On August 2, the song was officially released to streaming services.
Liar was used as one of the official theme songs for WWESummerslam 2024 and was performed live at the event by Jelly Roll.
Composition and lyrics
The song revolves around Jelly Roll confronting his addictions and harmful thoughts,[4][5] which he depicts as a voice in his head encouraging him to continue with substance abuse and materialism and convincing him that he is too heartbroken to find love.[4][5][6] Jelly Roll acknowledges the detrimental effects of succumbing to his temptations and is ready to overcome them,[5] telling his inner voice on the chorus: "You ain't nothin' but a liar / Yeah, I walk right out the fire / Yeah, you try to keep me down / Try to put me underground / But I'm only going higher".[6] The instrumental consists of guitar riffs, drum beats and a choir of vocals in the background.[5]
Music video
The music video was released alongside the single. It sees Jelly Roll singing the song in the middle of a dark, dilapidated living room, while also facing his reflection in a mirror during the chorus.[4][6]
