Kaiyah Mercedes Releases Single ‘MANIC!!!’

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"Kaiyah Mercedes Releases Single ‘MANIC!!!’"

In a powerful blend of indie pop-rock and raw storytelling, 18-year-old queer music artist Kaiyah Mercedes releases her latest single, ‘MANIC!!!’. In her true signature format, ‘MANIC!!!’ serves as a powerful indie pop rock anthem full of gritty guitars and unapologetic lyricism.

Kaiyah began her musical journey at 13, finding solace in music during the isolation of the COVID lockdowns. Teaching herself piano and guitar, she used music as a tool for self-discovery, allowing her to express complex emotions and experiences through songwriting and documenting her journey of coming out and processing a diagnosis of Autism and ADHD.

‘MANIC!!!’ is not just a standalone single; it is a pivotal bridging song that embodies the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Co-written with Seetali Mack and mixed and mastered by Hayden Lauersen, ‘MANIC!!!’ is inspired by a real-life manic episode following a breakup, presenting a dramatised yet authentic portrayal of emotional upheaval. Kaiyah’s openness about her mental health journey has been a cornerstone of her artistic expression, allowing her to connect deeply with her audience. Her willingness to share her struggles and triumphs provides a powerful message of resilience and vulnerability, making her music not only a creative outlet but also a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges.

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The single offers fans a sneak peek into the direction of Kaiyah’s future soundscape, some of what is set to be her most personal and raw works yet, with themes of heartbreak, love, and emotional intensity, reflecting her growth and evolving artistry. This new sound draws inspiration from artists like Louis Tomlinson, Olivia Rodrigo, The Buoys, and Maisie Peters, creating a unique blend that is sure to resonate with her audience.

Kaiyah’s live performances are a testament to her dynamic artistry. Catch her at the Moonee Valley Festival on February 22nd, a special acoustic performance as part of Roarfest as Memo Music Hall St Kilda on March 9th and the ‘MANIC!!!’ Single Release Show at the Bergy Bandroom in Brunswick on April 6th. The lineup features an all-queer, neurodivergent roster, including My Giddy Aunt and Local Sweetheart, promising an unforgettable experience.

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ChIPS release single ‘Frequent Flyer’

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"ChIPS release single ‘Frequent Flyer’"

“Frequent Flyer” is an atmospheric and emotive pop song created by young people from the Chronic Illness Peer Support (ChIPS) service.  The track powerfully conveys the experience of being a young person living with a chronic health condition and learning to cope with frequent stays in hospital.

ChIPS members were empowered to write, compose and record the song in collaboration with musicians/producers Luke Escombe and Benny Thatcher from “We Wrote That”. Luke and Benny are themselves “frequent flyers” living with chronic health conditions. Using music and song writing as a means of expression has been a powerful outlet for not only ChIPS members but also the musicians involved.

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Luke Escombe: ““Frequent Flyer” was a true collaboration that evolved over many zoom discussions and writing sessions. It’s ended up being an expression of not just the individual tastes and talents of the group but of the underlying emotions we all feel about having a lifestyle that involves being in and out of hospital. It shows how powerful music can be in communicating ideas that are often too difficult or painful to put into words”.

The song was launched on 16 May at the NSW Health and Arts Framework Forum in front of NSW Health staff including Deputy Secretary Deborah Willcox.  It was received with a standing ovation and the young people involved were invited to speak on their experience of using creative expression to amplify and elevate their voices.

ChIPS would like to acknowledge the support of Accessible Arts and Health Infrastructure NSW in this project.

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Song Description

An indie tune put together by the ChIPS team from the Childrens Hospital and producer Luke Escombe. Some great sounds plus collaborative vocals from all the participants. Frequent Flyer is the term used for their frequent hospital visits. An important and special song which will help raise awareness.

About ChIPS

ChIPS is a peer support program that runs across Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network for young people aged 12-25 years who are living with a chronic illness or condition that affects their day-to-day lives. The aim of the program is to connect young people with shared experiences and provide them with opportunities for developing leadership and life skills through workshops, advocacy, creative projects, program planning and public speaking.

Since 2021, members of ChIPS have been collaborating with artists Luke Escombe and Benny Thatcher, of arts-in-health initiative “We Wrote That”, to write and record original songs that speak to the experience of being a young person living with a chronic health condition.

ChIPS – Frequent Flyer is out NOW July 14th through Foghorn/MGM

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“We Wrote That” – Website with previous releases and making of blog
https://wewrotethat.com.au/

Connect with Luke Escombe: