Mike Waters Touches on Mental Health Struggles With “I’m Doing Fine”

The physical toll of COVID-19 dominates the headline, but most of us are more likely to suffer mentally from the pandemic. I know I’ve personally been on a bit of an emotional roller-coaster, alternating between feeling totally in control and at peace with the situation and finding myself paralysed by anxiety. In this time of uncertainty, Mike Waters’ new single “I’m Doing Fine” really resonates.

The Melbourne singer-songwriter gets honest about his own mental health struggles, including how difficult speaking up about them can be when men are taught to simply suck it up.

“It came from me telling my own story of when I was hit by a really intense bout of deep, dark depression, that I’ve never experienced before,” he explained. “I learned that the thing I needed to do to get through that was to talk to people. This song is about people who say to their friends that they are fine but on the inside they are falling apart.”

Many of us are feeling isolated right now, whether you’re under a mandated lockdown or you’re playing it safe and staying in like me. If you’re struggling, remember help is always available. I find I’m calling home more than usual and video chatting with friends, but there are also plenty of support services available if you’d rather talk to someone you don’t know. Call the following numbers for 24/7 help:

beyondblue: 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Lifeline: 13 11 14
MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

Mike Waters Collaborates with Max Frost on “Drowning”

Local urban artist Mike Waters has teamed up with American pop act Max Frost for an exciting new track “Drowning.”

“Drowning,” which Mike says is “about becoming completely consumed and overwhelmed by the pressure you put on yourself to succeed,” is such a catchy track. I can hear so many influences in it, yet the way it’s put together is totally unique. It’s so clever. I’ve listened to it several times this morning and I’m still hearing different things.

Mike will launch the single on April 7 at Melbourne’s Wesley Anne before joining Lewis Watson for his national tour in June.

Mike Waters Gambles on Musical Career

It’s amazing to think that Mike Waters has spent the last decade working in a corporate job, keeping his musical light hidden under a bushel. He wrote songs in secret in his bedroom, and floored his family members, friends, and colleagues when he showed them exactly what he could do.

His debut single is “Gambling Man” and it’s just incredible. It’s folky and honest and accessible without being boring. It’s such an appropriate song too with its lyrics about diving headfirst into life and taking chances even when the odds seem to be against you.

“Gambling Man” comes from Mike Waters debut EP Life, which will be released independently tomorrow, May 8.