Rosalie James, a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter from Cornwall, UK, has recently unveiled her latest release, “Girl I Was.” With a musical style that blends elements of dreampop, indie rock, folk, and Americana, Rosalie captivates listeners with her raw and honest storytelling.
Growing up, Rosalie immersed herself in music, learning to play the piano and guitar while drawing inspiration from a wide range of artists, including The Beatles, The Bangles, and 90s dreampop and indie musicians. Her passion for songwriting and her desire to create meaningful music led her to pursue a career in music after working as a Social Worker in social care and mental health for ten years.
Rosalie’s journey has been shaped by her experiences with sensory sensitivities, managing emotions, and social interaction difficulties. After years of struggling with severe depression, anxiety, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and substance use issues, she was finally diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder in January 2023. This diagnosis has allowed her to embrace her authentic self and use her music to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding neurodiversity, domestic violence, addiction, and mental health.
Her recent Kickstarter campaign, supported by a compelling video showcasing her songs, successfully raised £5000 in just 28 days. Rosalie has also performed at various festivals, supported renowned UK pianist Ben Waters at Mylor Sessions, and appeared on Radio Cornwall for engaging interviews. Her previous singles, “Will We Ever Rest?” and her cover of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill,” received positive responses from listeners and were featured on BBC Introducing South West.
“There is so much I want to say, and the depths of terminal sadness and fleeting joy can only be properly expressed through music – any other form of communication is corrupted by confusion and doubt. Maybe feeling too much is actually feeling exactly the right amount when you’re trying to make something meaningful. Anyway, I can’t stop now.” – Rosalie James.
Rosalie’s forthcoming album, titled “Full of Chemicals,” features contributions from talented musicians such as Jorge Balbi, Lukas Frank, Steve Jackson, Garett Lang, and Jason Abraham Roberts. The album was produced and recorded in Los Angeles, adding an interesting narrative to Rosalie’s connection with the West Coast of the US, influenced by her father’s experiences working in the music industry during the early 70s.
The lead single, “Girl I Was,” is a poignant narrative that delves into a series of destructive relationships from Rosalie’s past. The song explores the journey of reclaiming one’s power and the necessary self-growth to move forward. With brutally honest and striking lyrics, Rosalie’s dreamily soulful voice and slightly chaotic stage presence create a captivating musical experience.
“Full of Chemicals” promises to be a cathartic and important album, serving as an autobiographical diary of Rosalie’s struggles with neurodiversity, toxic relationships, addiction, and mental health. The lush mix of genres and emotionally charged storytelling make it a compelling listen for fans of classic songwriters and progressive indie artists alike.
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