A HEXHAM singer-songwriter is about to release his new single which is focused on mental health.

Chris Kelly wrote and recorded 'When It Rains' remotely during the first two lockdowns.

When It Rains takes inspiration from Chris' own experience of mental health issues but also addresses how prevalent they are in society.

Chris (24), who is from Hexham, said: "When It Rains is a deeply personal song for me as it details one of the most challenging periods of my life but also addresses the fact that I am not the only one who has suffered in such a way and in fact many of my close friends and family members have also dealt with similar issues.

"Being in lockdown at the start of 2020 allowed me the time to assess my experiences and those of the people around me and channel them into song."

He said: "I was just writing the song in general but obviously it came a time when I guess it [mental health struggles] was more prevalent for a lot of people, because it was a very difficult time. It still is."

Chris added that the song does have a slightly optimistic tone, with the message that 'things will be ok'.

Chris worked predominantly with people from the North East on the song.

"That's something I'm quite passionate about, I like to work with people from the area," he said. "As an area it's got a fantastic music scene, and I think it's nice to highlight that."

Chris said he is inspired by the likes of Tom Petty, Sam Fender, Brian Fallon, and John Mayer.

Another version of When It Rains has been produced by Cheshire-based artist, Something Followed Me Home.

"It's very different for me, it's an electronic-style producer and I just sent him the vocals and one guitar and said 'do what you want'," Chris said. "But it's came back and he's done all sorts of these weird and wonderful things and it sounds pretty cool.

"It's quite interesting to hear myself in that context."

He has been performing and releasing music for the last eight years starting with his first band, Blind Buffalo, before turning solo.

Chris' debut EP 'Letters To You' , his last release, was awarded Midweek Music Club's 2018 EP of the Year.

Chris said: "One of the benefits of having quite a break between releases was that I wanted to do something slightly different, and work with some different people."

Chris has toured the UK and Europe on multiple occasions.

"I'm very excited to get going again," Chris said. "Performing is what I miss most.

"My first gig back is actually going to be in Hexham, at the bandstand, on August 19."

Having produced four singles during lockdown, the next single will be released in November.

When It Rains will be released on August 6. It will be available on all streaming platforms.

To pre-save the single, visit https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/chriskelly/when-it-rains?