Alanis Morissette has unveiled a new single and music video expressing her longing for live music amid the postponement of her tour. The track, titled "I Miss The Band," serves as a tribute to her bandmates and supports a mental health nonprofit. Released on a Friday, it highlights the challenges faced by music industry professionals.
Alanis Morissette's latest release comes at a time when live performances remain disrupted. Last year, her tour marking the 20th anniversary of Jagged Little Pill was postponed; it was set to feature tracks from her 2020 album Such Pretty Forks In The Road. The new single, "I Miss The Band," captures this sentiment through Morissette's distinctive vocals backed by minimal piano accompaniment.
The lyrics poignantly reflect her bond with her musical collaborators: “There’s not a day that goes by where I don’t hear / our music in my head / Where I don’t miss / the adventure in your company.” Directed by Victor Indrizzo, the accompanying video blends stop-motion animation with archival tour footage and band photos, evoking nostalgia for shared stage experiences.
Beyond its emotional core, the video functions as a fundraiser on YouTube for Backline Care, an organization aiding music industry workers. In a statement on the video page, Morissette explains Backline's role: “Life in this industry can be incredibly isolating and difficult; Backline provides a safe, private, and immediate place to go for help. Available for free to artists, managers, agents, crew, producers, labels, and their families, Backline programs offer case management, support groups, and wellness programs to meet the needs of this unique community.”
This release underscores broader struggles in the live music sector, offering both personal reflection and practical support for those affected.