Sam Fender tackles grief in new track People Watching

Sam Fender, a well-known singer and songwriter, is set to release his new album titled 'People Watching' in February 2025. This album will feature a single of the same name, which Sam has revealed is deeply personal and inspired by the loss of a close friend and mentor, Annie Orwin. Sam, who is recognized for his energetic performances and distinctive style, often plays his black and white striped electric guitar while captivating audiences with his voice. In a recent interview with BBC Radio 1, he shared that the song 'People Watching' was born from his experiences walking to and from the care home where Annie spent her final days. He described Annie as a 'surrogate mother' who played a significant role in his life, and he expressed his hope that she would be proud of the song. Sam recalled how Annie would often tease him about not mentioning her in his acceptance speeches, saying, 'I taught you everything. ' This playful guilt trip from Annie was something that Sam cherished, and he felt it was important to honor her memory through his music. Annie Orwin was not only a mentor to Sam but also a talented actress known for her role as Lou Gallagher in the beloved children's drama 'Byker Grove', which aired for 17 years. After her acting career, she transitioned into teaching and mentoring young people in the northeast of England. In 'People Watching', Sam reflects on his promise to get Annie out of the care home, which he described as 'falling to bits and understaffed. ' He was by her side when she passed away, a moment he poignantly captured in the lyrics: 'I stayed all night till you left this life cos that's just love. ' This line encapsulates the deep bond they shared and the love he felt for her. Sam explained that the song is a tribute to Annie, showcasing his love and respect for her. He described her as 'larger than life' and wanted to create a song that was uplifting and powerful, something that would resonate with listeners. Fans have already begun to connect with the song, with one listener named Enqruita sharing how it helped her process her own grief after losing her grandmother. She said, 'When I listened to it, it made me cry. ' Enqruita expressed that Sam's willingness to share his feelings made her feel less alone in her pain, highlighting the universal nature of grief. Sam revealed that 'People Watching' was the last song he wrote for the album. He was in the process of finalizing the album when Annie passed away, which prompted him to write additional songs, including this heartfelt tribute. He believes that 'People Watching' has become one of the most euphoric tracks on the album, stating, 'It made sense, it's about Annie. ' The upcoming album is described by Sam as 'more outward-pointing' than his previous work, 'Seventeen Going Under', and he sees it as a collection of stories that reflect his life experiences, the people he knows, and his hometown. He feels that the title 'People Watching' perfectly encapsulates the themes of the album.