‘Down Day’ is the brand new single from UK born indie singer/songwriter Courtney Jayd Lumsden. Known affectionately and musically as Jayd, the talented songstress reflects on her personal troubles with anxiety, and sends out a beautiful message of hope and persistence to anyone who is suffering and fighting the same fight. The folk pop track features delicate guitar and piano work, and simple yet intoxicating trumpet samples played by none other than Jayd herself, but it’s the artist’s vocals that steal the show on ‘Down Day’. Deeply inspired by the American singer/songwriter Jeremy Zucker, Jayd faces her demons head on, and finds comfort in the realisation that she’s not alone in what she’s going through. With two more singles scheduled for release in the next few months, we can’t wait to hear what else Jayd has up her sleeve.
‘Down Day’ is more than just a new single from a gifted musician. It’s an open, thoughtful and honest exploration of anxiety.
INDIE TOP 39
What does the song mean to you?
So this song was one of the first songs I wrote after having my first ‘burn out episode’. The writing reflects how I feel in anxiety ridden moments. After having reached out for help with my anxiety, I realised it’s super common, and really wanted to write something to let other people know they’re not alone with what they are feeling because the feeling of being alone was what really scared me into panic attacks. Jeremy Zucker’s tracks have that effect on me – they really helped me.
Since working independently I feel more free to express myself through my music, resulting in a much more honest writing style and dreamy/chill instrumentals.
Who do you hope the song resonates with the most?
Anxiety symptoms and how common it is. Anyone feeling alone in that place could take comfort in knowing it’s a normal thing to experience and it’s OK.
What are your favourite lyrics in the song?
'I wake up shaky most days now, I wonder if I drink another coffee Will I drown?'
These are my favourite lyrics because it’s something that really effected me. The constant shaking when I woke up and the kind of questions you can ask yourself when you’re in that state of mind (what seems so silly now could be a genuine question for someone with anxiety to be asking themselves).
What inspired you to share the song with the world?
Jeremy Zucker’s music had a huge impact on my recovery and I wanted to help people like he helped me heal through his music.
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Make sure to connect with Jayd on Facebook » Instagram
Now you can listen to all the 39 songs in one place, right here on Spotify!
This coverage was created in collaboration with Musosoup as part of the #SustainableCurator movement.
