Tanaya Harper returns with a touching new single in “Cleo”. The powerful ode to the inner voice that we often ignore follows the stunning track “Night Terrors”, both are from her forthcoming debut album They Have Become Me set to be released on October 18.
In “Cleo,” Tanaya explores the aftermath of a breakup and captures the persistent echoes of a past relationship in one’s daily life. Her characteristic introspective lyrics and ethereal vocals are buoyed by a vibrant and upbeat rhythm section that mirrors the song’s emotional journey.
The inspiration for “Cleo” came during a reflective retreat, where the titular cat provided unexpected companionship and symbolic resonance.
She reveals,
“’Cleo’ is a song that explores moments of growth and insight following a relationship’s end. Those moments when you can humbly acknowledge your equal participation in an unhealthy relationship, whilst also offering yourself kindness and the opportunity to sit with and learn from the experience, rather than choosing the route of righteousness and ignorance. The song is named after a cat called ‘Cleo’ who lived at the songwriting retreat where the song was written. She was sleeping next to me when I wrote ‘Cleo’, so it felt very fitting to immortalise that moment.”
Tanaya’s lyrical exploration of growth and self-awareness is a testament to her ability to blend introspection with infectious melodies and “Cleo” is a soulful exploration of self-discovery for anyone who listens.
