Follow Taylor Lang
This is the first of the two Taylors we have this month! Taylor Lang comes from Canada. And here’s a song that will speak to a specific group of people who might not seem that numerous at first glance but who, in reality, represent a large part of our society: those who feel uncomfortable in their jobs and dream of quitting!
This happened to me in 2019, right before the pandemic. I had been in an administrative job for seven years, a role that lacked any real purpose. Every task felt utterly meaningless, and my whole life was beginning to lose its sense of direction. So, I had to make a drastic choice: leave a “guaranteed-for-life” job for a less stable, but ultimately better, life. I made that decision thanks to a song in French that I heard for the first time then it was like a switch had flipped. I’ve quit my boring job. Five years later, I have no regrets whatsoever.
Naturally, when Taylor Lang sent me his new single, Fun Shirt Friday, released on November 15, I felt a jolt, as if I had stepped into a time machine. This little masterpiece tells the story of a man trapped in a soul-crushing job, feeling completely imprisoned. And yet, deep down, he holds the key to his own freedom. That’s precisely what the song tries to convey.
Even more surprising, this song is inspired by a true story, as Taylor shared with us (read opposite). Yes, you read that right. Through a stranger he saw on the street, Taylor was able to imagine everything that might be happening in the life of this intriguing, multi-layered character, only some parts of whom are visible. It’s an impressive feat to have created such a masterpiece from nearly nothing. And Fun Shirt Friday is the kind of classic song I really enjoy: Taylor took the time to craft a genuine intro and structure for it, somewhat unusual but true (the ending is delightfully surprising).
The contrast between the sad, colorless character and his potential to be a creative, colorful one is absolutely striking, and this contrast is woven into the song itself: the lyrics and vocals jar you awake, making you aware of the situation, while the warm guitar and production create an atmosphere that’s ultimately comforting.
IMC Listening Guide
Quick insights to help you connect with the song on your terms.
Best weather to enjoy this song
Rainy day
Best time to listen
Morning calm
Best place to listen
Out in nature
Does this song haunt the silence?
Melody lingers
Goosebumps scale
Chills guaranteed
