In her latest single, “Girl I Was,” Rosalie James sings, ‘when I first met you, I didn’t like you…’
That is not the case when it comes to the song. I was immediately swept away by the lyrics and Rosalie’s voice. The lyrics in “Girl I Was” are an honest confession and introspective look at a past relationship. Rosalie is sure to draw comparison to Kate Bush, I myself thought so, but she also has echoes of Sharleen Spiteri of Texas and Chantal Kreviazuk. She carries a wonderful vibrato within her voice that is emotional, stunning, and beautiful.
Produced by Daniel Knowles (known for his work with Sharon Van Etten), “Girl I Was” is a narrative of Rosalie’s own experiences in a toxic relationship and is filled with such raw emotion and cinematic lyricism that it tugs at the heart and memories.
As the lead single from her forthcoming album, Full of Chemicals, the song is not only a glimpse into the album, but into Rosalie’s own strength. Her strength comes from facing sensory sensitivities and emotional challenges since childhood and after years of battling depression and anxiety, she was diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder in January 2023, finally feeling empowered to embrace her authentic self.
As she reflects,
“Maybe feeling too much is actually feeling exactly the right amount when you’re trying to make something meaningful.”
For Rosalie James, music is not just a form of expression – it’s a lifeline.
For “Girl I Was,” the beacon of hope and healing is an emotional and vulberable track that reflects with authenticity and raw honesty.
