Nell Mescal releases powerful debut single 'Graduating'

Maynooth singer-songwriter Nell Mescal has released her debut single 'Graduating' accompanied by a picturesque music video.

The 19-year-old songstress has been writing music since a young age, and despite self-releasing a couple of tracks, this is the first single to be produced, mastered and released officially, after her signing with Q Prime Management (Foals, Muse, Metallica, Declan McKenna).

'Graduating' is a coming of age track, dealing with the difficulties of relationships and friendships when the significant era of secondary school years comes to a close. The song reflects moving on, dealing with hurt that comes with it, and overcoming the trauma these years can bring.

Mescal's powerful vocals dominate the track, boasting a beautifully controlled belt and elegant twinkle of vibrato. The song starts out gently and builds to a breath-taking crescendo before softening down to a finish. Mainly featuring keys, the instruments and techniques used fit in perfectly with the words decorating them.

Nell's lyrical ability is stunning for such a young musician - in a moment, particular phrases bring you rushing back to that time period in your own life and the uncertainty of it all. The transportive effect of this track is astounding for such a new arrival to scene.

The gut-punch end lyrics to the track are the perfect close: "You're graduating on Thursday, and I don't love you anymore."

Speaking about the track, the musician said: "The song is about feeling like you’re supposed to be sad about something but you’re not. Then feeling a little bit angry, I suppose and trying to turn that anger into something a little less all-consuming. Just wishing that some experiences were nicer.

"I wrote Graduating in an hour sitting on my bed in my pyjamas and made a little lo-fi demo. It felt genuinely real and very much me, because I was alone on the piano for that hour, just needing to vent.

"I ended up really loving it and sent it to some friends, family and my manager and everyone really liked it!! It just felt right to release this song; it’s so important to me and a little bit scary because it’s quite personal!"

The accompanying music video for 'Graduating' features Nell in a DIY style graduation robe, appearing like an outsider. The homely feel to the visual is the perfect pairing for this heart-wrenching track.

Mescal has garnered an enviable following on her social media platforms where she often tests demos and covers. Her self-released track 'Missing You' soundtracked the Brown Thomas 2020 Christmas advertisement.

The attention on this Kildare starlet really picked up when her brother, Paul Mescal (Normal People), began sharing her work on his platforms, sharing his fanbase with the budding singer. Recently, the young Irish singer opened for Paul's girlfriend, the global superstar Phoebe Bridgers, at a Soho House performance.

Since leaving school, Nell has now moved to North London and found herself surrounded by other young creatives, many of whom are helping the singer to discover more about what she’s capable of, and are collaborating with her, giving the young musician a thirst for more music knowledge. One such acquaintance is another young rising female star, music producer Steph Marziano, who produced 'Graduating'.

Hot Press are excited to see Nell Mescal's journey as a musician, with hopefully more incredible music dropping soon!

Check out the video for 'Graduating' below.