Let off steam mid-week with Nick Ward’s latest single.
The Sydney-based musician serves up a raw and relatable anthem “Gimme”, giving us a taste of his debut album coming later this year.
In “Gimme”, Ward shares his own teenage struggles with identity, particularly regarding his sexuality. Written after his first tour, the song captures his quest for clarity and connection amidst confusion. With its catchy indie pop beat, thrashing guitars, and commanding vocal delivery, “Gimme” packs a punch.
“When I was 17, I spent most of my time and focus trying to make sense of who I was. I hadn’t come out to anyone except for my best friend. It’s a time in my life that I keep coming back to when writing music, just because of how potent those emotions are. I hadn’t come to terms with fluidity in sexuality; I needed a concrete label or tag to feel like I’d found what I was searching for,” explains Nick.
“‘Gimme’ was written the day after my first tour ended, and I think I was unconsciously still riding the high of those shows. Sydney (my hometown) was our last stop, and the crowd started a mosh-pit in like every song. Those shows gave me a lot of perspective on what music is really about.
“There were kids in each city with tattoos of the artworks who knew all the lyrics – kids who looked just like me, and clearly felt a lot of the same things I had in high school. I wanted to make something for everyone who’s been in that spot.”
The accompanying video, directed by Charles Buxton-Leslie, brings the lyrics to life in a sleek and stylish clip.
“Inspired by the film “After Life” by Hirokazu Kore-eda, where individuals direct memories from their lives, the video idea emerged. It’s about me directing my own life story, casting someone to play my younger self, and navigating real-life casting challenges,” adds Ward.
Ward made his mark in the Australian music scene with his debut EP Everything I Wish I Told You, followed by Brand New You in 2022, showcasing his distinctive bedroom pop style.
Nick Ward – “Gimme” is out now.
