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Euan Blackman Finds Solace among the Spirits with ‘I’m Not Scared’

By Cynthia Gross

On March 25, Liverpool-based artist and rising talent Euan Blackman, a favorite at Alchemical Records, released his latest single, “I’m Not Scared” ft. Cooza. The warm, daydreamy folk track, which follows the release of “HIGHHIGHHIGH” and “Sinking,” finds solace in solitude among the paranormal.

“’I’m Not Scared’ is mainly about living in a less than ideal housing situation,” Blackman explains. “I use a lot of metaphors to do with ghosts and feeling haunted to explain the anxiety-fueled sleepless nights experienced.” “There’s something I can’t explain when I walk through this place / There’s whispering in the walls / And there’s shouting down the hall,” Blackman sings in the opening lines of the song.

Ironically, despite the fact that Blackman’s surroundings are occupied by ghosts and spirits, his inspired composition, “I’m Not Scared,” feels peaceful and comforting. Perhaps the tension serves as a reminder that the unknown, including things we “can’t explain,” are not fundamentally sinister. There’s a certain quality of mystery and magic to them that can be alluring.

The introspective lyrics in “I’m Not Scared” are supported by Blackman’s signature soft, layered vocals, acoustic guitar, and wistful electric guitar embellishments. Euan Blackman notes that his sound is influenced by artists ranging from Phoebe Bridgers to Claude Debussy. The impressionist, enchanting sound palette that Blackman uses to create something of beauty is not surprising given his eclectic influences.

Near the end of the song, UK-based artist Cooza lends backing vocals that result in a chorus effect against the overlay of the refrain. Blackman acknowledges that any discomfort he faces in the haunted abode pales in comparison to the freedom he’s offered to live life on his own terms. “I don’t want to go back home / To my bed that I’ve outgrown / I know it’s haunted / But I just don’t care / I’m not scared,” he sings, as both a declaration and personal pep talk.

“I’m Not Scared,” as well as Blackman’s past singles, normalize the concept of being alone, which is refreshing. While there is value in community, there is also significance to being alone – case in point being the compelling compositions Blackman composes from “behind his pastel blue bedroom door.”

Blackman’s growing body of work is uplifting and life-affirming, a collection that you find yourself returning to often. His music feels immediately familiar and inviting, enveloping listeners like the embrace of an old friend or a comfort blanket. Blackman has a loyal following on TikTok, where he has amassed more than 11K followers and 2.5 million views. His music has been praised by acclaimed folk artist Benjamin Francis Leftwich, Radio 1’s Jack Saunders, and Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda.

Stay tuned for upcoming releases from this star in the making, including his forthcoming EP, Grateful For The Moments Spent Alone. Check out “I’m Not Scared” below and on the Alchemical Records MultiGenre Mixture playlist on Spotify.

Cynthia Gross

Cynthia Gross is a freelance writer and award-winning spiritual pop artist based in Maryland. With more than a decade of experience as an executive ghostwriter, she understands the power of each individual’s voice to create positive, meaningful change.

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