By Alyce Ruby
As women, I think it’s safe to assume that every single one of us has received unsolicited male attention – from name calling to harassment. It’s a reality we unfortunately face from a very young age, especially in the age of social media. Essex-based Americana/pop singer-songwriter Roisin O’Hagan, decided to reply to an unwarranted message with a song - her newest single (released yesterday), ‘Girls Like Me’.
Roisin has had quite the start, as a Fender Undiscovered Artist finalist with backing from the likes of Matt Malley (Counting Crows), has supported Chris Shiflett (Foo Fighters) and Pete Murray – she’s a name you’ll want to remember. She’s had radio play on BBC Music Introducing and BBC Radio: Essex, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Kent along with features in major Spotify playlists.
She has a knack for blurring the lines between genres, and ‘Girls Like Me’ is no exception. Fusing pop, folk, country and rock – O’Hagan’s soft, delicate voice is a stark yet complimentary contrast to the music. The country/rock guitar riffs combined with the strong pop hook, prove that whilst her voice is delicate – it is powerful and she can handle a stronger sound. Of course, the lyrics contain words any woman can relate to, Roisin’s song writing is clever and catchy but holds an important message. She obviously isn’t afraid to put her thoughts out there, and uses her own experiences as inspiration.
Speaking on the new single, Roisin said: “I wrote ‘Girls Like Me’ in response to being called a nasty name by a stranger online, after not replying to their string of creepy, unwanted messages on Instagram. Unfortunately, a lot of people will be able to relate to receiving unsolicited messages and harassment – particularly in the ever-growing social media landscape. I believe in standing up for what you feel is right and wrong; for me, my chosen way to channel this is through song writing. ‘Girls Like Me’ documents my experiences and feelings as a young woman using social media. I suppose, in a round about way, the person finally got my reply”.
As a young woman myself, I admire Roisin for the message she’s putting forth (that seems to be said time and time again) – especially with the conversation women are currently having around our own safety. Not only is she using her song writing for an important topic, she pulls it off in a witty manner along with her exceptional voice. I’m excited to see what else Roisin O’Hagan has in store for us in the future, I’m convinced she’ll be climbing up the charts in no time. ****
‘Girls Like Me’ is out now, available on major streaming platforms.
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