Chelsea Cutler lays her hand on the table with the vulnerable “Devil on My Shoulder,” a piano-led lament dedicated to her struggles with mental health. Tinged with descriptive details that give the message more depth, the song offers a very real, immersive depiction of what those who live with depression experience on a daily basis.
“To be able to be in a better place emotionally, I had to get to a place where I could make the distinction between me and my depression,” Cutler admits. “For a long time, I conflated the two and believed my depression was a fundamental part of my identity. I don’t feel that way anymore. I know what my identity is and what my personality is. I also recognize the way that my depression works – as an external force – against all the best things about me. For lack of a better description, my depression is like the devil on my shoulder, whispering things to me that aren’t true, encouraging me to feel emotions based on cognitive distortions, obstructing my motivation and confidence.”
“Devil on My Shoulder” is the most recent offering from Cutler’s upcoming sophomore album, When I Close My Eyes, due October 15th. The record features a collaboration with her friend and current tourmate Quinn XCII, “Calling All Angels,” as well as the previously-released singles “Walking Away” and “You Can Have It.”
You can find “Devil on My Shoulder” on your favorite streaming services now, presave When I Close My Eyes, and connect with Chelsea Cutler on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube!
