Dublin-based singer-songwriter Gavin Fox has returned with a touching new single called “You Can Lean On Me,” and it creates the kind of lasting impression that stays with listeners long after the song ends. The track combines gentle acoustic guitar with heartfelt folk-rock energy, building slowly and naturally like having a real conversation with someone you completely trust.
This song will be part of Gavin’s upcoming 2025 album called Illuminate, and it focuses on themes of human connection, offering support, and finding quiet inner strength. The inspiration came from Gavin’s experience helping a friend work through anxiety, which led him to write “You Can Lean On Me” as a way to provide comfort to anyone facing difficult times. The song avoids being loud or overly dramatic, instead choosing to be honest, genuine, and deeply human in its approach.
The track starts with soft, quiet vocals and gradually develops into something more powerful and uplifting, featuring rich musical arrangements and a sincere message. The style brings to mind early work by Mumford and Sons or Glen Hansard, while allowing Gavin’s distinctive Irish character to come through clearly.
David Arkins, who has worked with Gavin for a long time, produced the song and helped bring together emotional storytelling with a sound that draws from folk and Americana music traditions. The result goes beyond being just another song – it becomes a genuine promise to be present when someone needs support the most.
We had the opportunity to speak with Gavin about the personal meaning behind this track, his approach to writing songs, and his plans for future creative projects.
Listen to You Can Lean On Me below
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Congratulations on the release of “You Can Lean On Me,” Gavin. The title suggests themes of support and connection. What inspired you to write this particular song?
I recently helped a friend through an anxious moment they were experiencing. This person had a lot of fear built up in their head. Without betraying a trust, I wrote this song in an effort to reach out to anyone else who might need to hear it.
How would you describe the musical style and emotional tone of “You Can Lean On Me”? What can listeners expect when they press play?
It starts off quite mellow I guess, in the kind of tone you might adopt when meeting someone in the dark – sort of a hushed Americana vibe. Then it builds to something reminiscent of a rebellion-against fear and anxiety-when folk rock kicks in.
Walk us through your songwriting process for this track. Did the message of support come from a personal experience or observation?
Both. I think when you have experienced not-so-bright moments yourself and come through, it’s your duty to help others when they need it.
The concept of being someone others can rely on is powerful. What does that phrase mean to you personally, and how did you translate that into music?
It feels a special thing to connect with people. I try to do this musically. It is obviously rewarding when a song I release does well in terms of streams and radio plays, but most rewarding are the times my music touches someone. I sometimes receive messages from people, from different places around the world, telling me how one of my songs had an effect on them. Those messages, and the conversations I have, are the reasons I write and release music.
Who did you work with in the studio on this single, and how did they help bring your vision to life?
I worked with Irish producer David Arkins on the song, as I have done on all my work. We work well together at this stage. He tunes in to the sound I’m after and challenges me to make it better. It’s fun but serious, the way a creative process should be.
How does “You Can Lean On Me” fit into your overall artistic journey? Does it represent a new direction or build on themes you’ve explored before?
I have explored this theme before in my previous work. The music though feels a little different. I guess it’s my personal journey into something deeper and what’s coming out this time are messages lightly decorated with an old, Americana-folk inspired sound.
What do you hope listeners take away from this song? Are there specific emotions or messages you want to communicate?
The song might just reach someone at a time they need it. It’s kind of soothing and energetic, something they can lean on. It might help. And it might also remind them that they don’t have to go it alone and prompt them to speak to someone.
Are you planning any live performances or special events to support the release of “You Can Lean On Me”?
I don’t have any live performances lined up at this stage. I’m still writing and recording. But I will come out of hiding soon, I promise!
Is this single part of a larger project, like an upcoming album or EP, or does it stand alone as a statement piece?
With my previous work, there were definite plans and every song was released to fit into a particular album project. Right now, I don’t have a specific plan. I’m writing what I feel and releasing it into the world as it comes. Most likely there’s another album coming, but it’s coming very organically this time around.
What’s next for Gavin Fox after this release? What are you most excited about in your musical journey moving forward?
I’m heading back into studio to record another couple of songs later this month. I’m not looking too far ahead. It’s a privilege to be able to do what I do and I’m just enjoying the journey.
