Lucy Spraggan: On Music, Mental Health, and Perseverance

Lucy Spraggan brought a breath of fresh air to The X Factor in 2012 with her unique brand of pop-infused folk. Her kitchen sink songwriting, humor, and candid emotion set her apart. We caught up with Lucy to chat about her new single, which tackles vital conversations about male suicide.

What are you listening to, reading, and watching at the moment?

• Listening to: Lana Del Rey’s Born To Die album – because it’s iconic!

• Reading: Goodbye, Paris – the American version of my mum’s newly published book.

• Watching: A Star Is Born tomorrow because I’m in love with Lady Gaga.

What has been your biggest life challenge so far, and what did you do to overcome it?

At my darkest time, I struggled with my own thoughts. I got into a terrible place and had to pull myself out. The first step was letting my friends and family know how I was feeling. It was a hard moment, but it made everything better.

Your new single Stick The Kettle On supports CALM to raise awareness of male suicide. What do you think are the pressures on young men?

There are so many pressures. From a young age, guys are expected to be macho, indestructible superheroes. They’re seen as providers, pressured to look a certain way, feel certain things, be a certain sexuality, and avoid talking about their feelings in case they seem “weak.”

What help do you feel is out there?

There are so many avenues for help—text services, phone numbers, emails, online support—but reaching out can be incredibly hard. I’ve been there and couldn’t bring myself to seek help, though I now see how amazing those services are. We need to normalize using them more.

What have you learned about yourself over the past five years?

My best asset is my perseverance.

What would constitute a perfect day for you?

My wife, my dog, some autumnal weather, and our VW camper—probably parked somewhere with a view of the sea.

For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

Being and feeling alive.

Complete this sentence: “Ace mental health for me means…”

Ace mental health for me means that everything else will come naturally.

What do you eat to stay healthy?

Fruit, vegetables, fresh fish… and cakes, scones, chocolate.

Do you have a daily routine of exercise or make it up as you go along?

I use a timer app and rotate through several exercises. I find the countdown keeps me engaged since I lose interest quickly.

Can you share a favorite childhood memory of playing?

We used to run the cold tap and see who could keep their hand under it the longest. Weirdos.

What three songs lift your spirits?

1. Delicate – Taylor Swift

2. American Pie – Don McLean

3. There’s a Guy Works Down The Chip Shop Swears He’s Elvis – Kirsty MacColl

What is your favorite self-help book or motivational quote?

“We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars” – Oscar Wilde.

What advice do you offer to friends when they are feeling overwhelmed?

Take a break, find someone you trust, sit down, and have a chat. You never know what might come out.