Bright and hopeful folk pop with an impressively genuine and uncommon story to its optimistic shine. Singer and songwriter Jake Diehl builds an organic and joyous single, with the ukulele rhythm to full-band warmth of Yes.
Currently 24 years of age and releasing Yes as an impressively uplifting and catchy debut, Jake Diehl wrote the majority of this song several years ago, but was sadly involved in a serious accident at just seventeen. He subsequently spent one month in a medically induced coma, with very little hope of recovery.
Thanks to regular visits from his friends though, someone in particular who would play music to Jake whilst in hospital, eventually there was activity and possibility on the horizon. Jake woke from his coma, engaged in long sessions of rehabilitation, and years later was able to get back to the passion and escapism of making music. His belief now is that music truly is medicine for the soul, and his dream is to connect and gift that same healing quality to many more listeners who need it.
The simple strum of a ukulele quickly sets a kind of Lumineers vibe, before Jake’s own distinct and expressive voice presents a poetic and personal story that both captivates and elevates the mood of the room.
Things build from here, lyrically the song exploring the evolving stages of our protagonist’s perspective, and musically finding an infectious groove amidst organic guitars, drums, bass and voice.
Wrapping all of this together beautifully is the song’s chorus. “Say ‘yes’ to the uncomfortable, say ‘yes’ to the unusual, say ‘yes'” resounding amidst this topic of generally seeking discomfort in order to experience the true beauty of the world and our limited time within it.
Great songwriting, memorable and celebratory, a bold reminder of the real values of life, and a wonderful introduction to a passionate artist with a distinct and authentically positive approach to modern music.
Find Jake Diehl on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook.
