Unplug was an idea I first had while walking around New York City with my headphones on. It was a mild day; I was on a solo vacation and I had a slight spring in my step as I walked, people-watching my way through Washington Square Park. Almost everyone I encountered also had headphones on, and it gave me an eerie feeling. If I screamed, would anyone hear?
When I returned home, I brought the chorus hook to my friend and fellow songwriter Myles Travitz. We met last year in Nashville and have been cowriting regularly over Skype. It was a rare session where I actually came in well-prepared, with some prose ideas for verses. Myles helped me distill the scenes into phrases and find the rhymes. All in all, Unplug came together quite swiftly. Alone in New York I imagined the song might take somewhat of a social stance, but I’m happy it turned out to be more intimate.
It feels kind of uncanny to be sharing this song now, given all that’s going on in the world. “The Internet” has been scribbled in the top spot of my gratitude journal every day over the past three weeks of social distancing. Now more than ever I appreciate how connected we are, even when we’re physically apart. As stressful and uncertain as this next month may be, I’m trying my best to see it as an opportunity to “get back in touch” with the people and things I love. I hope you enjoy this song, and that wherever you are, you stay well and stay sane. KM
Unplug
Strangers begging for attention
Even when our door is closed
I find I’m praying for a power outage
Just to get some time alone
We could like some candles
We could cuddle up close
Lately that’s not ever how it goes
Can we just unplug
And get back in touch with love?
Can we just unplug
And get back in, get back in touch with us?
Now we’re sitting on the sofa
We got the time, we got the place
I feel your knee brush up against me
But your phone lights up your face
I wanna seize this moment
And remember how you taste
You’re right here, a world away
Can we just unplug
And get back in touch with love?
Can we just unplug
And get back in, get back in touch with us?