At just 14 years old, Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Sevilla Merritt, better known as Sevi, is ready to make waves in the pop music world with her debut single, “Backup Friend.” This ballad is a powerful reflection on the complexities of close relationships, particularly the bittersweet ache of feeling sidelined in a friendship.
Sevi‘s passion for music and performing blossomed early, taking centre stage in musical theatre productions like “The Wizard of Oz” and “The Little Mermaid” from the tender age of 5. Her musicality flowered further as she embraced the violin, piano, and guitar, and eventually found her voice as the lead singer of a cover rock band. But during the pandemic, a new desire bloomed: to create and perform music that resonated with her soul. “Backup Friend” is the first fruit of that pursuit, and it evidences Sevi‘s raw talent and emotional depth.
The song opens with a wave of synths, setting a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly captures the initial confusion and hurt of feeling like a backup friend. Her voice appears, full of sweetness but imprinting the paint that friendship can make you feel. As the song progresses, the music shifts gears, incorporating warm guitars and mournful violin strings that underscore the depth of the emotional turmoil.
Sevi’s lyrics are the beating heart of “Backup Friend.” They are unfiltered and honest, laying bare the vulnerabilities and insecurities that come with feeling like a backup friend. Its lines capture the essence of the song’s theme with poignant simplicity. We’ve all been there, feeling invisible in the face of another’s happiness. Sevi doesn’t shy away from those raw emotions, instead weaving them into a tapestry of relatable experiences.
With the release of “Backup Friend,” Sevi has established herself as an artist with a bright future. Her debut single is a powerful and moving song that is sure to resonate with listeners of all ages. We can only wait to see what this talented young artist does next, as she juggles her budding music career with the exciting world of high school and her love for theatre, fashion, and spending time with friends. With her passion, dedication, and undeniable talent, Sevi is poised to make a name for herself in the music industry, and “Backup Friend” is just the beginning of her journey.
