"The Hard Way" is a song by Australian electronic trio Pnau and American singer Khalid, released through Etcetc on 10 March 2023.

"[1] Triple J said "On the track, the Sydney trio brings an unapologetically big and sugary synth-pop hit, coupled with a melancholic lyrical performance from Khalid.

"[2] Conor Lochie from Tone Deaf said "The sublime synth-pop number conjures nostalgic memories of wholehearted '80s music.

"[1] Buddy Iahn from The Music Universe said "It's big scale contemporary pop at its finest, with Pnau's sublime synthpop providing the towering melodies and supremely confident hook that allows Khalid's starry vocal majesty to shine.

The two artists really lean into each other's vibe to establish a depth of feeling, with Khalid's lovelorn lyricism and sentimental emotions complemented by Pnau's ability to evoke nostalgic '80s sonic elements within a modernistic production.