Stephen Thomas On the Making Of “Breaking Hearts”
What inspired you to write the lyrics/music for "Breaking Hearts?"
When I first heard the track, I immediately connected with it.
The idea for “Breaking Hearts” came from reflecting on how confidence is often mistaken for arrogance, something I experienced growing up. I also thought about how relationships, whether personal or professional, can become toxic and pull you away from who you really are. This song is about reclaiming your power, walking away from what holds you back, and not apologizing for your presence. It’s not about wanting to hurt anyone, but sometimes, breaking hearts is necessary to protect your own. It’s an anthem for living free, bold, and without regret.
What impact do you hope this song will have on your audience?
The impact I hope this song has is simple, choose YOU first. Life has taught me that not everyone will have your back, and some people only care when it’s convenient for them. But when you find the ones who truly do care, hold on to them. More importantly, treat yourself, love yourself, and value yourself. Because at the end of the day, the one person you can always count on is you. Even in relationships, sometimes walking away isn’t just the end, it’s the start to a new beginning. This song is a reminder that putting yourself first isn’t selfish it’s necessary.
What was your favorite moment in making the music video?
I’ve got a couple of favorite moments from filming. One was definitely shooting at the warehouse with the band, DJ, and the crowd. The energy they brought when I arrived was unreal. Then watching my team enjoy the process, and have fun made it even more special. Everyone, from the crew to the security team, was dancing and vibing. When people from all walks of life regardless of race, gender, or background can come together and genuinely enjoy something as one, it’s a beautiful thing.
The other moment that stood out was filming at the mansion where Creed III starring Michael B. Jordan, The Underdogs with Snoop Dogg, and Rod Wave’s music videos were filmed. Being in a space where so many major projects have taken place made it feel like I was walking in the footsteps of greatness. That energy was inspiring.
What has been one of the most significant moments of your musical journey so far?
Wow, that's a great question. I’ve had a few big moments so far and many more to come, I’m sure. Some highlights would be recently being named The Source Magazine's Artist To Watch for 2025, having my music video Back Home featured on MTV as an MTV World Premiere, and charting No. 2 on iTunes alongside country artist Blake Shelton.
Coming from a small town in West Virginia, where there’s often a small-town mentality and a lot of adversity, those are accomplishments I’m truly proud of. But even with those wins, I know I’m not where I want to be just yet. There’s still a lot of ground to cover, and I’m pushing every day to reach that super huge break we’re still chasing.
What makes it even more meaningful is that I’ve done this independently funding everything myself, all while working a demanding career as an over-the-road truck driver. It’s been a huge sacrifice, but it’s what I love. I’m humbled, I’m grateful, and I’m just getting started.
How do you stay inspired and motivated to continue pushing boundaries in your art?
For me, it’s simple. What keeps me inspired and motivated as an artist is hearing new music and constantly challenging myself. I’ve always known I was more than just one writing style or one genre. I actually started out in Christian music because God has always played a huge role in my life. But as I grew and matured, I found myself drawn to different genres and sounds. I became the kind of artist who wanted to say, “Let’s try it. Why not?”
I took a leap of faith, and it paid off. My first R&B record, Feening For Love, received two Grammy Award considerations. Then Too Close received a Grammy consideration as well. I even jumped into hip-hop with Outstanding, featuring The Gap Band and UNK from 2 Step and Walk It Out, which was just performed at Coachella by T-Pain on the 2 Step Remix.
Now here I am with Back Home, my debut alternative rock/pop-punk single, which charted in the Top 60 on the radio charts. Stay Strong and Breaking Hearts are following right behind it. So yeah, I don’t mind pushing boundaries. Because when everyone else is saying no, Stephen Thomas is saying, “Let’s try it. Yes. Why not?”
It’s even to the point that I think the music industry should create a Universal Genre, because that’s where you’d really see who can truly push boundaries. Not just jump between styles, but embody them authentically. That’s what I’m trying to do.
Next, I’ve got a pop single called Strange Love releasing June 6th, followed by my new EP The Universal Me in August 2025, which will feature all these genre-crossing songs. Then we close the year with my country single Come Home To Me in October.
Pushing against the odds doesn’t scare me. In fact, I welcome it. A lot of the greats made incredible music, but few truly crossed genres and fully embraced each lane for what it is. I’m ready to be that artist who does.
