Award-winning multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Bird has returned with a deeply evocative new single, “Daddy”, released last Friday. Marking the first taste of her upcoming EP, “Heads or Tales”, which is set to arrive in late spring 2025, the track delves into the complexities of familial relationships, particularly the dynamic between a father and son. This acts as the follow-up to her 2024 remaster of “Falling Like Stars” taken from her 2004 debut album, “The Insides”.
Blending contemporary folk with atmospheric dream-pop, “Daddy” sees this female multi-instrumentalist’s signature sweeping string arrangements and delicate finger-picked guitar melodies take centre stage. The song was co-written with Hal Lindes, known for his work as a guitarist with Dire Straits, and explores how the absence of love in childhood can shape a person’s life, sometimes manifesting in a relentless drive for success while leaving an emotional void.
Impressing with her strong, heartfelt vocals, Bird touches the listener effortlessly through storytelling lyrics, enveloped by the folk-pop meets Americana sound. Resonating with all who listen, this multi-instrumentalist makes an impact from the very start and her undeniably crisp vocals send chills to her audience while the strings create the backbone of the melody. Quite possibly one of her best songs to date, this new single is one that will always hold meaning.
“This is a love song,” Bird explains. “However, it is not about how much love someone feels but how little. How a fundamental lack of love when someone is young may create a driving desire to achieve, that they might have great financial or worldly success but are left unable to ever fill the empty void tenderness should occupy. It’s about how that void can travel and become passed down from generation to generation, mutating subtly along the way, causing chains of repeating negative events that are near impossible to break”.
Split between London and Nashville, the recording process for “Daddy” brought together an impressive lineup of musicians. Award-winning country guitarist Ilya Toshinsky adds his signature touch, while Rascal Flatts’ Jay DeMarcus provides the bass, enriching the track’s depth. With its intricate instrumentation and heartfelt lyricism, the song further cements this female singer’s reputation as an artist who effortlessly blends genres while delivering powerful storytelling.
With a background in classical training, Bird—real name Janie Price—has long been celebrated for her versatility as both a musician and a songwriter. Her career has seen collaborations with artists such as Emeli Sandé, Vanessa Mae, and members of Travis and the Manic Street Preachers. Across her five studio albums, she has showcased her ability to craft deeply personal, cinematic soundscapes that resonate with listeners worldwide.
As “Daddy” sets the tone for “Heads or Tales”, Bird’s ability to navigate intricate emotional themes through haunting melodies and poignant lyricism is more evident than ever. With this latest release, this multi-instrumentalist and artist continues to carve out her distinct space in contemporary music, captivating listeners with her evocative sound and emotionally charged narratives, while building anticipation for what’s to come.
“Daddy”, by Bird, is available to download and stream, right now, across all platforms. Look out for her forthcoming EP, “Heads or Tales”, set to be released later this year.