Jarrid Lee Releases Anthem of Resilience “I Don’t Back Down”
Acclaimed Indigenous artist Jarrid Lee is elated to announce the release of his new single, “I Don’t Back Down.” This resounding anthem, available now across all major streaming platforms, illuminates the potent mixture of Lee’s country and roots influences. For fans who thirst for the heartfelt narratives of Bruce Springsteen or the captivating energy of Brett Kissel, “I Don’t Back Down” provides a lyrical journey, adding yet another dimension to Jarrid’s already extensive repertoire.
The story behind “I Don’t Back Down” is as riveting as the song itself. Born out of a chance encounter with a scout and a transformative journey to Nashville, this single embodies the grit, heart, and undying perseverance that Jarrid carries within him. On the cusp of adulthood, Lee was at a crossroads. Failing to make a hockey team that his friends succeeded in joining, he faced the gut-wrenching reality of dreams deferred. But as the song’s poignant opening lines state, “I thought my life was over / I was only 16 / The day I heard I got cut / I didn’t make the hockey team.”
When Jarrid arrived in Nashville, he met with iconic songwriter Dustin James. The kindred souls connected instantly. James, an industry stalwart with Junos and Grammys under his belt, encouraged Lee to open up about his life, including his unyielding love for hockey, his relentless work ethic, and even his complex relationship with his wife. When asked why he kept going despite all of the obstacles that seemed to rain down on him, Jarrid offered a simple, yet poignant reply:
“Because I don’t back down.”
That simple yet profound exchange gave birth to the song’s unshakeable hook, capturing the unwavering commitment that defines Jarrid Lee.
It’s more than a song; it’s an ethos. Whether it’s about persistently asking the woman of his dreams out until she finally says ‘yes’ or channeling his frustrations into his craft until he earns his spot on Team Canada’s youth squad, Jarrid’s life is a testament to the power of never backing down.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Jarrid Curtis Lee Poitras, you may know me as Jarrid Lee the Country Music Artist, and if you don’t know me we can be friends. (Ha ha)
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
“I don’t back down” was a song written last year in Nashville with songwriting guru Dustin James. We talked about what my life was like growing up and like most Canadian kids my time was spent at the rink. We also threw some love into the 2nd verse as per Nashville’s cookie-cutter approach and joked about how many times I asked a girl out until she finally said yes and fast forward to the spoiler alert she’s my wife. The song has some very unique listening cues with vocals, a heartfelt bridge, and last chorus you feel that the point has been made that this song will inspire, motivate, and endear you. All made possible with my good friend and producer Phil Anderson mixed by the master Maor Applebaum. Thanks guys.
Do you have any upcoming shows you’d like to tell us about?
Too many to list but Oct 19th Nashville Zoo, Oct 20th Grand Ole Opry for Josie Music Awards, National Elders Gathering in Edmonton at the Expo Center Nov 1st, Ramada Customer Appreciation on Nov 2nd Saskatoon Nov 9th Regina, Knowing our Spirits Conference Edmonton Nov 23rd.
Staff Christmas Parties in December along with Community Celebrations are always being booked. Check out www.JarridLee.com for full updates under the Shows Tab.
If given the chance, which Canadian artist would you love to work with in the future?
1st Brett Kissel, of course, we grew up in the same area, same hometown, went to school in the same schools and he is an absolute monster of an entertainer and amazing artist. There are others but we might run out of paper, realistically to work with anybody at this point would be a dream come true. Anybody anyody?
What’s your goal for 2024?
New Album with 10-12 songs, a bigger name, more recognition, more touring, more fun, and try my best to be the most genuine artist I can be loving each person I talk to and encounter. Small goals will eventually lead me to a stage near you.