Natalie Shay has always been a storyteller. The multi-award-winning indie-pop artist from North London has built her career on translating the universal ups and downs of life in your twenties into songs that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant. Her new single, 'Do u relate?', is a perfect example of this. It’s a bittersweet anthem that captures the feeling of being on the cusp of a new chapter, longing for a change while still rooted in the familiar.
Fresh from a writing trip to Nashville, Natalie is turning this introspective moment into her most impactful music yet. The track is a heartfelt look at the transition from one phase of life to the next, a theme she admits is a "diary entry" of her own thoughts. It’s this lyrical honesty that has earned her critical acclaim from publications like Billboard and Clash, and continued support from BBC Radio 1. Natalie’s writing process is rooted in her own emotions and experiences, or those of the people close to her. She believes that by being vulnerable, she can create a connection with her audience, hoping they’ll hear her songs and feel a shared sense of understanding. As she puts it, "I just hope to be relatable and for people to be like, ‘oh yeah, I feel like that sometimes too.’"
Sonically, the single is a masterclass in balance. It pairs its reflective lyrics with a bright, feel-good soundscape. The playful melodies, fast-paced vocals, and live instrumentation—including saxophone—create an infectious, full-band energy that she specifically designed to be a highlight of her live shows. It’s a sound that brings to mind the vibrant, guitar-driven pop of artists like Haim, but with Natalie’s own distinctive flair. The accompanying music video, a warm snapshot of a London summer, perfectly complements the song’s uplifting vibe.
With over 20 million streams from her solo work and collaborations with dance artists like Grum, it’s clear Natalie’s music is already connecting with a global audience. But it's her live performances that truly showcase her artistry. Having sold out London's Omeara and showcased at SXSW, she’s become a formidable presence on stage. In 2024, she supported Shania Twain at BST Hyde Park and Gavin DeGraw on his UK tour. With her biggest headline show to date at O2 Shepherds Bush Empire on the horizon and festival appearances at Latitude and Isle of Wight this summer, Natalie Shay is not just a rising voice—she’s a force to be reckoned with.
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