By Laura Michell
Taylor Sheridan started writing his latest song a year ago – well before the coronavirus crisis hit. But the Macedon Ranges’ singer’s latest single couldn’t be more relevant.
Sheridan’s When the Demons Come, was released on Friday and shines a light on mental health.
The Kyneton-born singer and songwriter started writing the song following a friend’s battle with mental health.
“It made me put a mirror up to where I was at and how I was doing mentally,” Sheridan said.
“To be honest, I found myself running a bit rough. Maybe I knew subconsciously that something wasn’t right.
“I started writing this song and it was really helpful… luckily I had an artistic outlet.”
While mental health is a topic that few people are willingly talk about, Sheridan said he felt he would have been doing himself a “disservice” if he didn’t open up about his experience.
“As an artist, you are supposed to investigate these things and these feelings,” he said.
“I think I would have been doing a huge disservice to myself if I didn’t go down that rabbit hole.”
However, the Gisborne resident said it wasn’t until he began sharing When the Demons Come with friends and family that he was absolutely certain it was a topic he wanted to pursue.
“When I would share the song with people, especially people close to me, right away, a conversation would be started.“
Sheridan hopes When the Demons Come will help “spark a conversation” for anyone who is struggling with their mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said he considered postponing the song’s release for a more “normal time”, but realised its message of strength was incredibly important.
“It feels like a good time to be releasing a song about strength. I hope that when people hear the song they can connect. If this song can help one person, then it was worth it.”
Music and performing have been Sheridan’s passion for as long as he can remember.
He doesn’t recall anyone pointing him in the direction of the stage, but rather a voice in his head telling him this was what he would “dedicate” his life to.
Over the years, Sheridan has released two independent EP’s and string of singles and has toured with some of Australia’s biggest names including Pete Murray, Thirsty Merc, Daryl Braithwaite, and John Farnham.
After 10 years of touring, he said he can’t wait to get back on the stage once the pandemic is over.
“With touring being taken away, you realise how much you love it,” he said.
“Not only do people want to watch music but as artists, we want to get back on the stage and entertain.”
Details: www.taylorsheridan.com.au/
