Released 5 August 2011 Recorded 2011 Label PIAS | Format Digital download Genre Alternative Writer(s) Charlie Simpson | |
"Parachutes" is a single by English singer-songwriter Charlie Simpson, from his debut studio album Young Pilgrim (2011). It was released on 5 August 2011 as a digital download in the United Kingdom. The song peaked to number 44 on the UK Singles Chart, his highest charting single to date.
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Background
In an interview with Digital Spy he was asked to describe the song, he said:
"It's one of the more instrument-heavy songs on the record - I wanted to strike a balance between the acoustic nature and more upbeat instruments. It's also the first track I've ever written with a piano, so it's a good contrast to other songs on the album."
Music video
A music video to accompany the release of "Parachutes" was first released on YouTube on 8 June 2011 at a length of three minutes and thirty-four seconds.
Live performances
Charlie Simpson performed the song Live on OK! TV. Simpson performed the song in the Live Lounge live from Boardmasters in Newquay for Fearne Cotton and BBC Radio 1. He also performed the song live at Xfm in Manchester.
Critical Reception
Lewis Corner of Digital Spy gave the song a positive review stating:
"I'm so sorry for the pain/ Sorry for the aches/ Sorry for the moods I'm swinging," Charlie confesses over a twinkly piano and snare-rattling beats in his unmistakable raspy tone. While his apology may not extend to Matt and James after his recent Busted reunion snub, it's a far cry from his tween-pop days of drooling over high school teachers and perky air hostesses - instead focusing on his newfound independence. "I don't want it back/ I don't need it back/ I don't need a parachute," he admits. Something tells us the 'Year 3000' reunion tour is long way off yet.