The Pilot

About

The Pilot is the ninth track on Under the Radar Vol. 1, written by Robbie Williams, Guy Chambers, Chris Heath and Canadian-American singer-songwriter Justin Nozuka. It was produced by Chambers with Richard Flack. Nozuka, known for his soulful acoustic work, co-wrote the song during sessions in London that blended his melodic sensibility with Williams’ reflective lyricism.

The track combines elements of funk and pop, marked by syncopated basslines, falsetto vocals and a pulsing rhythm. Williams described it as an experiment that grew from an existing piece written by Nozuka and Chambers, to which he added new lyrics and a lead vocal. The result is a song that explores loyalty, trust and connection, delivered with a groove-driven confidence that contrasts with the more introspective tone of much of the album.

In its lyrics, Williams uses flight imagery as a metaphor for emotional dependence and shared strength. The repeated line “My heart beats rhythm inside of your chest” suggests unity between two people moving through uncertainty together. Though one of the lesser-known tracks from the collection, it showcases his willingness to venture into new musical territory while retaining his characteristic warmth and wit.

“I love the vibe on it and just had to sing on it. Justin’s got a fantastic voice and writes great songs. I changed a few lyrics, but the spirit of it was already there.”Robbie Williams

The Pilot stands as an understated highlight of the album, revealing Williams’ openness to collaboration and his flair for transforming a simple groove into something emotionally resonant.