Tom Misch's Journey from Stardom to Soul-Searching and Back
In 2022, Tom Misch, the acclaimed London-based singer-songwriter, made a startling decision to cancel his Australia tour and step away from the music industry. At the peak of his career, with chart-topping albums and viral success, Misch found himself overwhelmed by anxiety and a loss of identity, leading to a three-year hiatus focused on surfing, travel, and mundane jobs like barista work.
The Breaking Point and Retreat
Misch recalls the intense pressure that culminated in his withdrawal. "I had an intense year of touring and I wasn't feeling good, I wasn't enjoying it any more," he explains. "My mental health was getting worse and I was so anxious I had to cancel the Australia tour. I was forced to stop, really, and I had no plan for what would happen next." Returning to his family home in south-east London, he ceased social media activity and set aside his guitar, embarking on a period of introspection.
Rediscovery Through Simple Living
During his break, Misch embraced a simpler life, enrolling in a surfing instructor course in Cornwall and working various jobs, including gardening and barista roles. "I've done a lot of random stuff over the past three years," he says. "Having some structure outside of just music is really helpful." This time away allowed him to reconnect with himself, leading to creative inspiration from new experiences, such as a campervan trip in Portugal that influenced his music.
The New Album: 'Full Circle'
Now 30, Misch has returned with his second solo album, Full Circle, released on 27 March. The album marks a significant departure from his earlier work, featuring 11 tracks that delve into classic 70s singer-songwriter styles, with influences from Joni Mitchell and James Taylor. Lyrically, it explores themes of ageing, family love, and emotional vulnerability, reflecting his journey of self-discovery. "It's a very vulnerable record that arose out of this period of introspection and existential questioning," Misch notes.
Creative Evolution and Collaborations
Misch's hiatus has fostered a more collaborative approach to music-making. He has worked with figures like Ian Fitchuk, known for his work with Kacey Musgraves, and British indie singer Matt Maltese. Additionally, Misch has engaged in projects like Wildflower, a songwriting retreat for emerging talent, and secret open-mic tours with friend Joel Culpepper, reigniting his passion for live performance. "Music is always going to be a part of me," he affirms. "I'm learning how to navigate my relationship with it."
Looking Ahead with Balance
While a tour for Full Circle is planned, Misch intends to keep it small-scale, focusing on enjoyment rather than commercial pressure. "I'm in a really good place right now," he says. "I'm only thinking: what do I feel like doing this year and what's going to be the most fun?" His experience highlights a broader trend of artists prioritising mental health over fame, as he finds contentment in a balanced life that may even include part-time work alongside music.
