Holding onto Heaven

Foxes announced that "Holding onto Heaven" would serve as the next single from her debut album, Glorious (2014). The track was made available for pre-order in advance of the release of Glorious, which was scheduled for release in the United Kingdom on 12 May 2014.^[1] Speaking to DIY about her debut, Foxes expressed a grounded perspective on releasing the album, stating that she was simply happy to share it and not placing too much pressure on its success.^[2]

The track opens with delicate, soulful vocals reminiscent of Florence and the Machine, before shifting into a polished yet derivative pop sound. While pleasant and well-crafted, it has been noted to lack distinct originality.^[3]

The video starts off with her playing with a music box. As she gets up from the table it is revealed there are two different versions of the same party: One of them being gloomy and slow and the other being uplifting and happy as everyone dances to the song. In the end it turns out to have all been an imagination, Foxes winding down the same music box from the beginning.^[4]

Amy Davidson from Digital Spy praised "Holding onto Heaven" for its poetic lyricism and anthemic chorus, highlighting Foxes's powerful vocal performance and the track's elegant restraint despite its '80s ballad influences.^[5] The Guardian described the song as "rather lovely", noting Foxes's emotive, quivering vocals and her earnest delivery, which sets the track apart from typical talent show fare.^[6]