“Prisoner” by Emily Kidd is the most lyrically compelling song you’ll have heard in a while. Built out of all the classic country instrumentation you could dream of and an ever-gratifying set of chords, this track feels familiar, but with a twist. It’s not too often you encounter a song that tackles mental health and relationships in this way, especially considering how dark the theme really is below each clever turn of phrase. If you love the atmosphere of an Americana song but also want something thought-provoking, “Prisoner” is the song for you.
Drums, acoustic, fiddle, and slide guitar welcome us into the verse. “My baby likes me better when I’m medicated / He’s made of steel, you just can’t break him,” Emily delivers warmly. Already, the image of this relationship is rather harrowing. There’s an implied tension between the mental struggles of one partner and the rigid attitude of the other. As the verse continues, we learn that this man only doles out love when his partner is stable. To many listening, it’s a poignant and cathartic message—a situation that befalls far too many people. Emily Kidd communicates the emotions associated with it quite effortlessly.
The chorus ties it all together: “Prisoner in my own head / I can see the things I’m breaking, but I just can’t get to them.” As Emily’s voice reaches a new, high register, we’re hit with some heartbreaking lyrics. This climax is not only musically sound but thematically sound. In just one minute, the listener can easily tell the songwriting prowess that went into making this song.
Be sure to give Emily Kidd a follow and “Prisoner” a stream! You’ll be glad you got to know this brilliant artist.
Written by Alyce Lindberg
