In North London, Natalie Shay reflects on how the simplest diary entries can become the biggest songs of her career. The multi-award-winning indie-pop singer-songwriter has built her reputation on heartfelt storytelling—moments pulled straight from her own life or the lives of those around her. “I always write about things I feel, or from observing people close to me,” she says. “I just hope people hear my music and think, ‘Oh yeah, I feel like that sometimes too.’”

That spirit comes alive in her new single “Do u relate?” A bittersweet love song written from the perspective of someone still living at home but itching to step into the next chapter, the track fuses introspective lyrics with playful melodies, fast-paced vocals, and bright, full-band instrumentation—including a saxophone line that gives it an undeniable summer energy. The accompanying music video captures that feeling perfectly: a warm, sun-kissed snapshot of London that makes you want to roll the windows down and sing along.

Shay’s career trajectory suggests she’s on the brink of her biggest year yet. Fresh off a writing trip to Nashville, she’s already earned praise from Billboard, Clash, NOTION, Wonderland, and The Line of Best Fit, while BBC Radio 1’s Future Pop continues to champion her sound. Her collaborations with dance artists such as Grum, Giuseppe Ottaviani, and Kryder have pushed her streaming numbers past 20 million—but it’s on stage where her music truly comes alive.

She’s sold out Omeara, showcased at SXSW in Austin, and in 2024 alone supported Shania Twain at BST Hyde Park and joined Gavin DeGraw on his UK-wide O2 Academy tour. This summer, she’ll bring her infectious live energy to Latitude and Isle of Wight, adding to a festival résumé that already includes Reading, Victorious, Y Not?, and 110 Above. Right now, Shay is on her first European tour supporting Saint Motel (6–18 September), and her own biggest headline show—at London’s O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire—is just around the corner.

Yet behind the accolades, Natalie remains grounded. She wants her music to feel like a conversation with a friend: a reminder to trust your instincts, to be vulnerable, and to know you’re not alone. For aspiring female singer-songwriters with guitars slung across their backs, she hopes her journey is proof that their own stories are worth telling.

As “Do u relate?” rings out over festival fields and packed venues, it’s hard not to feel that Natalie Shay is leveling up—turning everyday emotions into a soundtrack for a generation figuring life out one verse at a time.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.