Arlo Parks - 'Black Dog'

Singer-songwriter and poet Arlo Parks’ confessional style seeps into her powerful new single ‘Black Dog’.

The term ‘black dog’ is used as a metaphor for depression and other mental health illnesses. Arlo sings about wanting to take drastic measures to make the black dog ‘go away’. The song understandably has melancholic tones to it. 19 year old Arlo opens with, “I’d lick the grief right off your lips”. It’s a song which can offer support for those facing mental health issues. 

There is an effortlessness to Arlo’s music. It makes for easy listening while carrying a deeper message. Her vocals are tender and honeyed and the track features elements of jazz. There is also an honesty to her lyrics (“It’s so cruel, What your mind can do for no reason”). ‘Black Dog’ follows her single ‘Eugene’ which was released earlier this year. ‘Black Dog’ has been Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac’s ‘Tune of The Week’ this week.  

'Black Dog', In Arlo Parks' own words, is a song about "the feeling of helplessness that comes along with watching a loved one suffer". Further discussing the meaning behind the song, she explains, "It's supposed to make people who are struggling feel less isolated and start a conversation surrounding the prevalence of mental health issues in today's world"

Words by Narzra Ahmed

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