Mikayla Menzies Explores Pain and Strength with New Single “Misery”

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Victoria, British Columbia-based singer-songwriter Mikayla Menzies has released her latest single, “Misery,” a deeply emotional anthem about the complexities of physical and emotional pain, the struggle to find solace in the midst of hardship, and the journey to reclaim personal freedom. This track marks a significant evolution in Mikayla’s songwriting, blending candid vulnerability with a powerful sense of emotional depth.

The inspiration for “Misery” comes from a harrowing road trip Mikayla took across Canada, a journey she undertook while grappling with a mysterious illness. Along the way, she found herself battling not just physical ailments like dizziness and muscle aches but also the overwhelming emotional toll that comes with uncertainty and frustration. Despite the challenges, Mikayla held onto the hope of reaching her destination—Tofino, a small surf town on Vancouver Island that represented a place of peace and healing. The journey itself became both a literal and metaphorical path toward self-discovery and understanding. Through her pain, Mikayla unearthed an unexpected strength within herself, and “Misery” serves as a cathartic release of that personal transformation.

The title “Misery” encapsulates the feeling of being trapped within one’s own body, while still striving to find moments of solace amidst a sea of discomfort. Mikayla’s lyrics reflect this internal struggle, conveying the sense of being physically incapacitated, yet emotionally searching for a way out. The production of the song mirrors these contrasts, with lush, flowing melodies that combine elements of singer-songwriter intimacy and alternative pop. The track embodies the bittersweet mood Mikayla experienced during that painful summer, which eventually gave way to the crisp, reflective days of autumn.

Mikayla herself reflects on the song with a mix of irony and honesty: “Sometimes, when we plan exciting things, life can have other lessons in store for us, and both of those things can be true and play out all at the same time. There is a degree of irony in the way this song has a ‘feel-good’ mood, but carries such a heavy truth for me personally. I wanted to be as honest as I could while telling this story, and with the creativity and innovative perspective of my producer, Josh Hart, I really feel like we were able to execute it.” This candid exploration of pain and self-realization brings an unexpected lightness to the song, making it not just a reflection of struggle, but also a celebration of personal growth.

Music has long been Mikayla’s means of self-expression and healing. Growing up in the suburbs of Ottawa, Ontario, she faced personal tragedy at a young age, which she channeled into songwriting as a way to process and understand her emotions. Her moody indie-pop rock sound caught the attention of Willow Sound Records in 2018, and she released her first four singles under their label. Since then, Mikayla has continued to evolve her sound, blending elements of indie-pop, rock, and alternative styles into a unique and emotionally resonant musical landscape.

Now based on Vancouver Island, Mikayla is creating music that continues to delve into themes of mental health, grief, and emotional recovery. “Misery” is just the first taste of her upcoming EP, which promises to further explore the bittersweet complexities that she holds dear in her work. Her music speaks directly to anyone who has ever felt lost, alone, or trapped in their own circumstances, offering a sense of connection and understanding for those navigating difficult times.

With “Misery,” Mikayla Menzies invites listeners to join her on a journey of emotional reckoning, offering hope and strength to anyone who has ever struggled with their own pain. Her honest, raw approach to songwriting resonates deeply, leaving an imprint that feels both personal and universally relatable. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Mikayla’s music promises to be a source of comfort and empowerment for all who need it.