Definition
“No Time for Tears” is a 2020 single by English DJ and producer Nathan Dawe in collaboration with the British girl group Little Mix.
Overview
Released on 25 November 2020 through Atlantic and Warner Records, the track was written by Little Mix member Jade Thirlwall, songwriter‑producer MNEK, Nathan Dawe, and Tre Jean‑Marie, who also handled production. It marked the final Little Mix single issued as a quartet before member Jes Nelson’s departure in December 2020. The song peaked at number 19 on the UK Singles Chart and achieved a gold certification from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI). An acoustic version and several remixes—including those by HUGEL, Mark Knight, and Lady Leshurr—were subsequently released. “No Time for Tears” was later included on the expanded edition of Little Mix’s sixth studio album, Confetti (2020).
Etymology/Origin
The title “No Time for Tears” reflects the lyrical theme of moving forward without dwelling on heartbreak or sorrow. The phrase is a common idiom in English, suggesting a focus on resilience and progress rather than emotional lament.
Characteristics
- Genre and Style: A dance‑pop track featuring a blend of electronic production, upbeat tempos, and vocal harmonies characteristic of Little Mix’s pop sensibility.
- Length: 3 minutes 16 seconds (original version).
- Recording Locations: Produced at Stardelta Studios (Devon, UK) and mixed at RAK Studios and Metropolis Studios (London, UK).
- Personnel: Nathan Dawe (producer, co‑writer), Little Mix (vocals), Tre Jean‑Marie (producer, instrumentalist, vocal producer), Uzoechi Emenike (MNEK) (vocal producer), with additional backing vocals and engineering contributions.
- Chart Performance: Reached top‑20 positions in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and several other territories; also appeared on US Hot Dance/Electronic Songs and various European charts.
- Certifications: Gold in the United Kingdom (≥ 400,000 units including streaming).
- Music Video: Released on YouTube on 15 January 2021, featuring visual motifs consistent with the song’s upbeat, forward‑looking message.
Related Topics
- Nathan Dawe discography
- Little Mix discography and Confetti (expanded edition)
- UK Singles Chart performance of 2020 releases
- Collaborations between DJs/producers and pop vocal groups
- Music production and songwriting credits of MNEK and Tre Jean‑Marie