Olivia Cox - Made Friends

MADE FRIENDS - OLIVIA COX

Olivia Cox, a rising pop-artist based out of Belfast, released her latest single “Made Friends” back in the middle of January - just two weeks after we rang in 2026. The track continues Cox’s growing reputation as an artist ready to turn the messier sides of life into upbeat, catchy, songs that you can dance along to. Recorded in Northern Ireland with producer Aaron Brennan, the song is an example of perfectly mixing contemporary pop with alternative and soul-leaning influences.

“Made Friends” is focused on the idea of struggle and acceptance. On top of a catchy backing track, she uses water as a recurring metaphor in its lyrics as she paints a picture of being pulled under by life’s pressures, only for them to come back over and over. As the title suggests, rather than offering advice, the song focuses on learning how to live with uncertainty (or make friends) instead of fighting it. Stand out lyrics include “I know I’ll get it right in another lifetime / I made friends with always feeling this way” as well as the drop-mic moment in the bridge of “the key to happiness is always stay a little insane.” And, important to note, her vocal performance only adds to the song’s upbeat message through its clear and clean delivery.

Furthermore, the production keeps the song upbeat throughout. Brennan’s work allows the track to have various levels of energy throughout, echoing the feeling of being overwhelmed, but then making peace with it This is especially true in the bridge, where the backing almost disappears for a moment letting Cox’s vocals take center stage. Sound wise, the song sits somewhere between alternative pop and cinematic alt-rock, and can easily be compared to top-artists like Hilary Duff, Tate Mcrae, and even with moments of Lola Young’s emotional clarity.

All in all, “Made Friends” highlights Olivia Cox’s growing clarity as an artist. From start to finish, the song sounds carefully written and thoughtfully produced from start to finish. As an emerging artists in the growing pop space, Cox shows she has what it takes for the music business, showing a clear sense of direction and strong lyric writing that leaves you waiting for the next release.