Relationships don't always go how we want them – and being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community means automatic added stresses and pressures. 'Ashamed' acknowledges this – as Darcy tells the story of how she was in an emotionally destructive relationship, made worse by the fact that her partner was closeted at the time.

“It's such a shame that you were so ashamed of me, and I'm a fool for holding on so long.”

'Ashamed' is the coming together of a number of talented people. Darcy, of course, leads the track with her immediately captivating vocals, telling her story. Cory Jach's driving guitar can be heard throughout, while Marcus Ryan delivers the toe-tapping drum beat. The end result is a rich, heartfelt track that conveniently doubles as an earworm.

“Recently, I went back and listened to those first recordings of ‘Ashamed’ and it almost surprised me how sad it sounded,” Darcy says. “Now, the track is so powerful for me – angry, even. It feels nice to hear that growth.”

“Even though I wrote this song five years ago, it feels like the perfect time to release it now. I’m in such a good place in terms of how I feel about myself, and my sexuality. It’s really special to honour my younger, closeted self.”

FROOTY is very excited to share this song a day ahead of its official release. Listen, and enjoy.

Darcy came out in 2017. Since then, she's become a prominent queer storyteller with a mission to highlight authentic LGBTQIA+ experiences in media. This song is a part of that – a searingly honest exploration into a relationship held back in part by a fear of revealing oneself to the world. . . Something members of the queer community can certainly relate to.

“No one should have to come out. But no one should make you deny who you are, or force their fear upon you, either. This song is about grief, breaking through shame and choosing yourself,” Darcy explains of the track.

But the musician says the message in 'Ashamed' can also go beyond what's on the surface lyrically.

“While 'Ashamed' was written about being closeted, shame is unfortunately a universal experience. This song is for anyone who’s ever been isolated by the shame of being who you really are – whether that’s because of your sexuality, gender or anything else.”

“Whether you have a cathartic singalong or a quiet moment of reflection, I hope it makes you feel seen.”

‘Ashamed’ by Darcy Fox is officially released 14 October.