James Alyn’s new single “Don’t Worry,” created in collaboration with London-based pop band PREP, arrives with the quiet confidence of a song that knows exactly what it’s supposed to do. It doesn’t demand attention or promise easy fixes. Instead, it settles in gently, offering reassurance in the middle of uncertainty; the kind that feels earned rather than manufactured.

Photo from James Alyn / Facebook

Formerly known as one-half of Thai indie-pop duo HYBS, Alyn has been carving out a more expansive solo path, one that leans into emotional honesty and versatility. PREP, meanwhile, has built a global following with their signature blend of soft pop, funk, and soul; music that feels smooth, comforting, and deeply human on tracks like “Line by Line” and more.

On “Don’t Worry,” those two worlds meet naturally, resulting in a track that feels intimate without being fragile, polished without losing warmth. In an interview with Manila Bulletin, Alyn shared that the song was inspired by a deeply emotional encounter with a fan who told him his music had helped her through her darkest moments.

Writing something meant to comfort others can be tricky, but for Alyn, the key was staying genuine. “I’m not thinking too much about having to say the perfect thing,” he explained. “I focus on being honest, empathizing, and really meaning well.” That approach runs through the entire track; there’s no grand messaging here, just sincerity and care.

The collaboration with PREP came together almost accidentally. As Alyn recalled during the interview, it all started when he opened for the band in Taipei. After the show, they jammed casually with no real intention of turning anything into a finished song.

A year later, Alyn stumbled upon a voice memo from that night, built the rest of the track around it, and sent the demo to PREP. From there, things unfolded organically. The band added what felt right, without overthinking or excessive revisions, letting the song find its own shape.

Blending PREP’s smooth, groove-forward sound with Alyn's emotive vocal style could have been a balancing act, but Alyn said it never felt forced. “We just went with what felt best from the beginning,” he noted. The result is a track that moves gently but carries weight, pairing lush synths and an easy rhythm with lyrics that speak directly to vulnerability and resilience.

Beyond the studio, Alyn still lights up when talking about his experiences performing in the

Philippines. He vividly remembers playing at Wanderland Manila, describing Filipino crowds as some of the most energetic and participative he’s ever encountered. Meeting fans after shows, hearing them sing his songs back to him, and feeling that shared emotion are, as he put it, “really what it’s all about.”

When asked about Filipino artists he’d love to collaborate with, he immediately brought up

Zack Tabudlo, recalling singing one of his songs and expressing genuine interest in working together if the opportunity ever arises. It’s a small moment, but one that underscores Alyn's openness to collaboration and cultural exchange.

Alyn also admitted during the interview that he genuinely misses the country and hopes to return soon, ideally to perform “Don’t Worry” live, even if he jokingly admits he might need the crowd’s help on the song’s higher notes.

Looking ahead, “Don’t Worry” isn’t just a standalone release. Alyn confirmed that the single is part of his upcoming second album, though details are still under wraps. For now, his hope is simple: that anyone who hears the song, even without knowing his story, walks away feeling lighter and more ready to face whatever comes next. “I hope the song can be a friend to them,” he said.

And that may be the most fitting description of “Don’t Worry” yet. (Ian Ureta)