Nelson Little shared his new single, “High Road,” in regards to his son’s struggle with school during the pandemic
Manitoba-based singer-songwriter Nelson Little recently unveiled his single, “High Road.”
Born from Nelson’s personal experience of worrying about his oldest son’s struggle with staying interested in school during the pandemic, “High Road” is a gripping, uplifting track that encourages listeners to keep their heads high as we all come to terms with the impact that the pandemic has had on society as a whole. Featuring Nelson’s smokey, rich vocals, the sweet sounds of acoustic guitar, and the unexpected yet seamlessly woven accordion tones, “High Road” represents the decision to turn the other cheek and pick our battles in times of debate and divide. Filled with seamless harmonies, an accordion and guitar solo, and a melody that perfectly compliments the song’s message, “High Road” packs a powerful lesson into an expertly crafted track.
Intending to expand past his own personal narrative, Nelson teamed up with co-writers Stephen Arundell and Dave Wasyliw to craft “High Road”’s message about gaining respect from one another when we choose to leave petty debates alone from a bigger societal lens that more listeners would be able to relate to. “High Road”’s repeated mantra of “let those sleeping dogs lie in someone else’s bed” truly encompasses Nelson’s seasoned advice for the world in a melodious, bright, and encouraging track.
Nelson shares,
“I started writing the song “High Road” regarding my oldest son (10), who started struggling in school during the pandemic. Rather than creating the entire song around his new struggle, the co-writers (Dave Wasyliw/ Stephen Arundell) and I focused on the debates and indifferences that the pandemic caused to society. The best advice most people would have for confrontation or debate is to… ‘put the fight down and take the high road.”
Listen to “High Road” below and learn more about Nelson Little via our Five Questions With segment.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Nelson Little. I’m a singer-songwriter born in Thompson, MB, raised on a cattle farm between the Riding and Duck Mountains in central MB. I have been performing on stage playing country music since 17 and started recording my own songs in 2004.
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
I recently released a song called “High Road” (May 20.22). This song was written in honour of my oldest son, who is ten years old. Over the pandemic, I believe school became a struggle for him with the constant changes. He lost interest in both curriculum and authority. We all experienced these massive changes at home and within the community. This song is an advice song. “Keep your head up, walk away from the confrontations, and take the High Road.”
Where do you tend to pull inspiration from when writing?
During the start of the pandemic, I had a small 15-minute (per) show every morning at 6:30 am called Corona Country on my personal Facebook account. I would wish well to those who had birthdays and share what the weather was like in my hometown of Portage La Prairie. I’d drink a coffee and have a small chat with the shout-outs that would come in. The little program would end with a song. I also spent time writing and learning new songs.
Do you have any upcoming shows or festivals you’d like to tell us about?
I’ve opened up for Charlie Major before. I’m opening for him again on July 9th. My one Canadian artist to perform with would be him. I’d like to perform one of his songs with him, and I’d love for him to sing my song, High Road, with me. His sound is what has been inspiring to me throughout my career. Also, I had tickets to Merle Haggards’ last show. He, unfortunately, never made it to his last show. His music and songs are also very inspiring and unique. I would’ve loved to see his last show or, better yet, play The Fugitive with him.
What’s your goal for 2022?
My 2022 goals are to market High Road to the fullest of my abilities. Generate online visual content to help sell my music. Release one more song before the snow falls. And, last but not least, take the show back to the stage! We have a few live performances this summer that I’m really looking forward to!