During the tail-end of a pandemic, as well as Mental Health Awareness month, it’s worth sitting down and giving a thought to self-care. Whether it’s social or solo activities, doing little things for oneself can make a surprisingly big difference in our day-to-day happiness. It’s not often a subject touched on in music, but luckily here comes Shayla McDaniel with ‘Better Days’ to try and remedy that.
Shayla McDaniel – Better Days
Tennessee-based singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Shayla McDaniel intentionally released this track during Mental Health Awareness month, describing it as an ‘anti-hustle culture anthem’, a counterpart to all the intense, driven, harder-better-faster-stronger tunes we know.
‘Better Days’ is a warm bath of a song, a mellow ode to compassion with plenty of soul.
‘Better days come with better nights’ sings McDaniel with effortlessly smooth tones, reminding us of the importance of balance.
There are plenty of jazz, funk, and soul influences to be heard here, with those lush harmonies and chugging groove. McDaniel’s sweet melodies float over twinkling guitar lines, with a steady driving beat maintaining the emotional resilience. The whole effect is incredibly listenable, with both classic and modern echoes. It’s no surprise that McDaniel has won acclaim, awards, and maintained a steady career – here is an accomplished artist with her own identity and her head on straight. Anyone missing the compassionate advice of a friend could put this track on as a musical substitute, and let McDaniel remind them: “The only time we have is now, so take care of yourself.”
Discover more from Shayla McDaniel
Words Eden Tredwell
