Essy’s latest single “The High Road” describes how the nuances and regrets of two parents' lives can congrue and influence the life of their children. Told from the perspective of a grown child, the lives of two people once intersected and completely altered the course of their hopes and dreams. The father once dreamed of a life different than the one he eventually grew into. Hopes of forming his own identity disintegrated in the wake of familial tragedy, and he eventually found himself empty-nested and keeping the company of his wife who once dreamed similarly to him. The mother, who spent her youth fantasizing about the influential screenplays she would write, now reads stories of fictional women who achieved dreams reminiscent of her own. Amidst the aftermath of their shared failed dreams, this pair who were once aspiring young dreamers are now left to influence their child in whatever ways they can. They taught their child to worry less about their future, and that would leave a lasting impression on our narrator. They look to the future and are forever comforted and empowered by their parents’ influence motivating them to not repeat their same mistakes. Because of their lessons, their child will always take the higher road and leave their past life for a better one.
“The High Road” is an indie rock anthem with synthpop elements which blend together to form a modern single heavily influenced by nostalgic musical themes. We are kickstarted into a piece that immediately utilizes synthesizers to form the instrumental base. These synthesizers are prominent in the beginning and are gradually pushed aside. This allows the rock elements of the single to be less of a focal point and serve more as an ever-present foundation. Electric guitars are integrated throughout the entire piece, but they do not shine on their own until Essy’s easy-listening vocals are cut away. These guitars only occasionally jump to the forefront and briefly completely reformat the entire song. The instrumental forms a single that is heavily influenced by the past, but is recontextualized for the modern day with its production and almost sweet story-telling nature of the vocals.
Essy is an American singer-songwriter who has been intertwined with music from a very young age. At just 11 years old, she taught herself how to play the piano. This allowed her to thrive in music and be accepted into NYU’s summer program and be taught by industry legends such as Barry Eastmond (Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin). Since graduating from University, she has integrated herself into the music industry by writing for both herself and others. Her writing has been sung by artists such as Hunter Hayes and has skyrocketed her image and influence. The music she writes for herself has done considerably well and has established her as a cemented artist. Make sure to follow her on social media and give “The High Road” a listen!
Written By Willow Gray
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