Despite the track's composition of vocals paired with stripped-back acoustics, ‘I’m Always On Stage’ evokes a real sense of tranquillity. Fender’s angelic voice complements the minimal guitar pattern, really allowing listeners to immerse themselves in his lyricism, brimming with meaning and emotion.
‘I’m Always On Stage’ is intricate, ambiguous and purposeful in its writing. Released while Sam is deep in his ‘People Watching’ tour - currently in Australia after the USA and various UK winter and summer dates - the track on the surface feels like a reflection of the exhaustion behind performing and travelling.
Delving deeper into his lyricism, we see a different meaning to being ‘on stage’, with it not merely being a musical performance, but a performance of character. At an age with cancel-culture running rife, there is an expectation held for public figures to operate exceptionally composed amid public scrutiny: “It’s Machiavellian movements are a test / To witness in the flesh / Makes me smile when I should be crying / And it never lets me rest.” Fender expresses in his track the exhaustion behind this, especially with his previous struggle with substance abuse: “There’s gack and drink and steroids on the counter / Do you think you’re some kind of rock star? / I did all that when I was on the dole.”
Fender’s power to be honest with listeners regarding his past is truly admirable and inspiring to those going through the same issues, and those who also feel shameful: ‘‘If you see me smiling / It's forceful and violent.” His choice to deglamourize being a musician reminds us of what listeners love about him - his ability to not only connect but comfort listeners with issues many of them face.
‘I’m Always On Stage’ comes soon after Fender chooses to donate his Mercury Prize winnings of £25,000 to Music Venue Trust, a classic gesture of his nature - being able to relate to the common listener, connecting to a much wider audience.
Emma Monaghan
Image: 'I'm Always On Stage' Official Single Cover
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