Songbird Rises with “Dry Land”: A Bold Pop Ballad That Dives Deep and Comes Up Strong

Some songs stay surface-level. Dry Land does not.

With haunting vocals, vivid metaphors, and a raw emotional undercurrent, Songbird’s latest single “Dry Land” doesn’t just make a splash; it pulls you under and doesn’t let go until the final note. The 25-year-old pop singer/songwriter from Brick, New Jersey, is no stranger to storytelling, and this release proves she’s swimming in deeper waters than most of her peers.

Written around the concept of sharks, yes, sharks, “Dry Land” uses the ocean predator as a metaphor for toxic relationships, intrusive thoughts, or anything in life that drags you below the surface. But what makes the song so special is its ambiguity. Some fans interpret it as a breakup anthem. Others see it as a battle with inner demons. For Songbird, that’s exactly the point.

“No matter what is pulling you underwater, one day you’ll find dry land. I hope people understand their worth—learning to love themselves and grow.”

Produced with a cinematic sheen and recorded in Nashville with a seasoned team, “Dry Land” blends moody piano chords with pop-driven hooks that crescendo into something cathartic. It’s got that classic pop ballad power, but with a unique edge, emotionally honest, thematically daring, and vocally mesmerizing.

There’s something timeless in the way Songbird delivers her truth. She doesn’t just wear her heart on her sleeve; she writes it into every bar. And while the track dives into pain, confusion, and survival, it ultimately surfaces with a message of hope and strength.

“Dry Land” feels like the kind of song you stumble on during a dark night and end up playing on repeat until the sun rises. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt like they were drowning and needed a reminder that land is closer than they think.

You mentioned sharks were the original inspiration for "Dry Land." What drew you to that image, and how did it evolve into something so personal?

I'm obsessed with sharks! They're the coolest creatures; I even have a shark tattoo and way too many plushies on my couch. When I went to Nashville, I co-wrote the song with Austin Heller and Jake Neumar. I told them all this, and we landed on writing about a toxic ex. More towards the behavior of a great white shark because they're my favorite! (The behavior says predatory hunting, curiosity, and much more that we used for the song). 

The song has connected with people on many levels: breakups, mental health, and self-worth. Did you expect it to have that kind of emotional versatility?

Honestly, no, but I'm glad it did. I wasn't too sure how people would take it again since sharks were the first main focus. When I showed it to my friends, they asked if it was based on inner demons. I was shocked and confused at first. Then I came to realize why I love music so much. Anyone can relate in any way. There are times I listen to a song and think it's one thing, but in reality, it's about something else. I love that you can interpret a song in any way you'd like. And I'm happy to see my song doing that for others.

What was your experience like recording in Nashville? How did working with that team elevate the track?

Recording in Nashville is my all-time preferred way of working on music. So far, all my music as Songbird has been recorded and co-written there (besides my song "All The Way" for a movie! I recorded in Nashville, but wrote it all myself). Before I was Songbird, I recorded in my home state, New Jersey. Don't get me wrong, recording music is the best no matter where, but Nashville is special. This song, specifically I, was in Austin's home studio. We co-wrote and recorded there, and it was so chill. I never felt any pressure; I felt like myself. I feel I'm able to get more done and have more creativity flowing. It's honestly the best, and I crave to do it more.

How do your influences like Sara Bareilles, Adele, and Lana Del Rey shape your writing or vocal style?

All of those artists have helped me grow as a singer. When I was in competition singing groups, I would perform solos as well. Most of the songs I was introduced to were by that artist. Once I found out about their music, I couldn't stop listening to their styles. Sara Bareilles, I would say, has the bigger impact. I won a competition back in 2015 with her song "Gravity," and that song has been a staple for me to perform since. Adele, the first song I learned to sing and play on the piano, was her song "Someone Like You." Lana Del Rey, the first song I sang was "Young And Beautiful"; it was at my 8th-grade chorus concert. It was also the night my fiancé asked me to be his girlfriend! They've all been very impactful in my life. 

What message or feeling do you hope listeners carry with them after hearing "Dry Land"?

After hearing "Dry Land," I hope my listeners realize they deserve happiness. To realize that whatever is dragging them underwater needs to be stopped. Everyone deserves to be themselves and not have to apologize for it. Be you, be happy, and find your own dry land.