With her new single ”Separation Anxiety,” Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Ash Kennedy presents a refreshingly honest exploration of love, trust, and self-doubt. This modern love song is a deep dive into those worries that creep into your mind when you’re far apart from someone, and it resonates with anyone who has overthought a relationship that isn’t even a thing.
At its core, “Separation Anxiety” is a confession. Kennedy reflects on the emotional journey that ensues when her boyfriend heads off to South Australia, and she suddenly finds her head swimming with questions. Anxious thoughts are unfurled over a playful yet mournful melody, a canvas on which Kennedy can explore the internal tug-of-war between trust and insecurity. But, as the song progresses, she shifts the spotlight back onto herself, coming to terms with the idea that perhaps the actual problem isn’t him but rather her fears getting the best of her.
Its authenticity to raw human emotion sets “Separation Anxiety” apart. Kennedy does not soften the emotional messiness but embraces it. Their words form a varied balance of concern and humor, and one may be born of both at seeing it all from this unique perspective, sending her off plummeting into the abyss.
It captures what can be achieved in these modern times of music creation. Shot over video calls on Discord with Tyler J, Kennedy recorded and edited her vocals from home, as production was methodically designed from afar. The result is a refined, professional, extremely intimate track that highlights her musicality and agility in an age where technology brings musicians closer together than ever.
“Separation Anxiety” is about the spiral of thoughts we tend to keep to ourselves. Kennedy voices those thoughts, making them feel less solitary and more universal. Ash Kennedy’s innate ability to draw from her own life and create beautifully written songs proves she is a force to be reckoned with on the Australian music scene.
Connect with Ash Kennedy on Instagram – @ashkennedy.music
