A few years ago, Jasmine Cruickshank found herself adrift.
Now, Im struggling to keep up with the songs that Im writing on a daily basis.
I dont think you’re free to really express feelings when youre disconnected from yourself.
Jasmine Cruickshank, the singer-songwriter behind Jasmine.4.tMatt Grubb*
Cruickshank has been playing music since age six, when she inherited a guitar from her late uncle.
I was always in bands, she says.
I just loved it.
A big part of writing songs is just how I process emotions.
She never really considered music a career option, though.
In the end, though, the experience just sent her into a deep depression.
Going to Oxford was a huge privilege, she says.
I was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome and spent a lot of time in bed after university.
That tour cemented Cruickshanks friendship with Dacus, though and a collaborative spark.
I didnt expect anything to come of it, though.
Still, Cruickshank sent a bunch of demos to Dacus, who played them for Bridgers.
When she plays them live to her growing legion of fans, these little landmarks take on new meaning.
Im singing these songs to audience members who are coming to terms with their identity, she adds.
I think that seeing me as an example of someone who has survived…
I think that gives other people a lot of hope.
