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Shriya Opens Up About the Impacts Mental Health Has on Songwriting

Young singer-songwriter Shriya joins us to discuss the writing of her new single “I’m Not Alright” and the strength she has derived from it.

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Shriya, photo by Sumit Tayde
Shriya, photo by Sumit Tayde

Maybe the first step to “being alright” is, as Shriya suggests, being ok with admitting you’re “not alright.” For the most part, that’s the basis of her recently released single “I’m not alright.” The song is the last single off of her new EP In a box, which is set to be released soon. It’s heavy-hitting but in a way that is relatable to any listener at any stage of life. The melodies are sombre but also soothing as Shriya pours her heart out, reflecting on her own personal journey. Wrapping together her impressive vocals with rich harmonies and a gentle piano, the song is both calming and moving. Part of her intention with “I’m not alright” is for it to act as a safe space for listeners. It’s a comforting place for people to run to if they are feeling isolated. Shriya proudly assumes the role of being a helping hand when one is needed.

It’s been a landmark year for the young singer-songwriter. She has released half a dozen singles, the most productive period of her young career. At just 18 years of age, she has already developed her own unique sound, combining together her love of pop and R&B music. At just 14, she released her debut single, “Tell Me,” and since then, she has focused on fine-tuning her songwriting skills and finding her niche. Now, many of her singles have tens of thousands of streams, and she has lent her voice to ad campaigns for top brands like Nykaa Fashion, Tang, and Lenskart.

In honour of the release of “I’m not alright,” Shriya joins us for a Guest Blog to discuss the impacts that mental health has on songwriting. She provides insight and perspective into the writing of this landmark song.

Musicians in Mental Health Advocacy: Shriya Opens Up About The Impacts Mental Health Has on Songwriting:

“The journey I’ve shared with songwriting has always been a close one. Mental health, especially, profoundly impacts my songwriting and shapes the themes I dive into. With my latest song ‘I’m not alright,’ I wanted to create an acoustic anthem for anyone feeling isolated in their struggles. The raw, confessional lyrics mirror my journey through pain, capturing those emotional highs and lows we all experience as we grow up, particularly during our teenage years. By sharing my story, I hope to create a connection and remind listeners that they’re not alone in what they’re feeling.

The sombre melodies and atmospheric production wrap around you, blending feelings of hopelessness with moments of hope. Lines like ‘Crying myself to sleep every night / Is not gonna solve everything’ really hit home for me, reflecting the heaviness of those tough nights when I used to experience severe anxiety and sadness. The chorus acknowledges how fleeting relief can be, but ultimately, I want to convey a message of acceptance: it’s ok not to feel ok. Through my exploration of mental health, I aim to create a space for my listeners where vulnerability is welcomed, and healing can truly begin.

‘I’m not alright’ particularly was written on a night when I was unable to sleep. Unable to breathe. It was when I had my first panic attack and the only thing that got me out of my ‘head’ was singing. I held down a few notes on the piano, uncertain at first. Then the words started coming. Slowly at first, hesitant — ‘I’m not alright.’ That was it. Just a simple phrase, but it felt like it held everything I couldn’t say. The panic, the fear, the loneliness. It wasn’t pretty, and it wasn’t polished, but in that moment, I knew I was being honest.

Looking back now, I understand that ‘I’m not alright’ wasn’t just a song about panic or fear. It was a song about survival. It was about finding the strength to keep going even when it felt impossible. And each time I sing it for a show, I remember the night I wrote it when I couldn’t breathe, but I kept singing anyway. And somehow, I found my way back to myself.”

Shriya “I’m not alright” single artwork

Shriya “I’m not alright” single artwork

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