The Great Impersonator

Halsey released The Great Impersonator on October 25, 2024, marking a major shift as their first album under Columbia Records following a departure from Capitol. The project functions as a time capsule where the artist impersonates various icons to explore identity and mortality. This concept emerged during a difficult period when Halsey was diagnosed with Lupus SLE and a rare T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. They approached the recording sessions at Electric Lady Studios in New York City between 2022 and 2024 as if it might be their final statement.

The sound spans decades of rock and pop history without sticking to one era. Each track pays tribute to a specific influence ranging from 70s folk to 80s power ballads and 90s alternative rock. Promotional materials featured Halsey channeling figures like David Bowie, Kate Bush, Aaliyah, Cher, Björk, Fiona Apple, Annie Lennox, Joni Mitchell, P.J. Harvey, and Bruce Springsteen. "Ego" draws direct inspiration from PJ Harvey while "Hometown" channels the spirit of Dolly Parton with a sweeping feel reminiscent of Springsteen.

Production duties were shared among Alex G, Greg Kurstin, Emile Haynie, Michael Uzowuru, Dylan Wiggins, and Halsey. The lead single "The End" serves as an unplugged folk ballad co-produced by Alex G and Michael Uzowuru that addresses health struggles directly. Despite critical praise for its vulnerability, Halsey told Zane Lowe on Apple Music in September 2024 that the record did not perform commercially as hoped. A deluxe edition arrived on May 1, 2026, adding seven new tracks including "Carry the Weight" and "Lucid" which had debuted during the For My Last Trick Tour. [编辑]