Critics from platforms like EDM Sauce and Dancing Astronaut have praised the track:
: Key lyrics such as "I'm gonna use every heartbeat" and "Today, not tomorrow" emphasize embracing the thrill of the present and taking risks.
Music critics have described the production as a "50-50" balance between the two producers, noting how Walker’s poetic synth lines and Alok’s polished bass plucks harmonize under KIDDO's emotive delivery. Lyrical Meaning & Themes Alok & Alan Walker - Headlights (feat. KIDDO)
The song utilizes the metaphor of "headlights" to explore themes of guidance and living in the moment.
: Lyrically, the track taps into a universal human yearning for clarity and finding someone to steer you when you feel adrift. Critical Reception Critics from platforms like EDM Sauce and Dancing
The collaboration follows a previous musical connection where Alan Walker remixed Alok and John Martin's track "Wherever You Go" earlier in 2022. "Headlights" was uniquely crafted through digital collaboration, with Alok, Walker, and KIDDO writing and producing the song together over alongside producers like Kristoffer Tømmerbakke and Erik Smaaland.
: KIDDO's "far-reaching" and "deep vocal tone" was noted for adding a complex dexterity that elevates the electronic production. : Lyrically, the track taps into a universal
: The introduction’s toe-tapping synth-line is followed by militant-style drums that create a pulsating, high-energy tempo.