Five years ago, songwriter Neil Avery and actor Nigel Planer released their debut single and music video, Talk It Out, to support Time To Talk Day. An annual event that encourages open conversations about mental health. The song’s message remains as powerful and relevant today as it was then: You are not alone. We are with you.
The Story Behind Talk It Out
Neil Avery and Nigel Planer had been collaborating musically for years when Neil experienced a moment of inspiration that led to Talk It Out.
After a heartfelt conversation with a friend who was struggling with mental health issues, Neil picked up his guitar, wrote the song, and quickly shared a rough demo with Nigel.
Neil describes the song as “very catchy, with a strong vocal chorus,” emphasising a simple yet profound message: Talk It Out … Ride It Out … We are with you, you are not alone. The track’s resonance was confirmed when Neil played it for his friend, who immediately connected with its lyrics and message.
A Music Video with a Purpose
The Talk It Out music video, shot at iconic London locations Alexandra Palace and Barbican, tells the story of an individual struggling with their mental health and finding solace through conversation with a friend. The visuals powerfully depict the transformative impact of opening up and being heard.
The Role of Me, Music, and Mental Health
Steve Loft, founder of Me, Music, and Mental Health, recalls how the song found a home within the group, which was formed in a vinyl record cafe in Hoxton. The group, consisting of performers, fans, managers, promoters, and video producers, was built on the idea that music can be a profound tool for mental well-being.
Steve credits a conversation with Alan, the owner of the record cafe, as the spark that led to the group’s formation. Alan had observed how many customers used music as a therapeutic outlet, inspiring Steve to create a space where people could openly discuss mental health.
Neil shared Talk It Out within the group, and its message deeply resonated. It soon became clear that the song needed a platform to reach a wider audience.
Bringing Talk It Out to Life
Jon Salmon, co-founder of Byte Entertainment and lead for Time To Talk Waltham Forest (previously Time To Change), first heard Talk It Out at the Me, Music, and Mental Health group.
Recognising the song’s potential to support mental health conversations, Jon worked to amplify its reach. Through a meeting with Moore Kingston Smith and their charities board, funding was secured to produce the official music video. This collaboration ensured that Talk It Out would reach and inspire many more people.
Five Years Later: The Message Endures
As we mark another Time To Talk Day, Talk It Out remains an anthem for mental health awareness. Its message that talking about our struggles can lighten the burden resonates just as strongly today as it did five years ago.
Music continues to be a powerful force in opening up difficult conversations, and the impact of this song is a testament to that.
Additionally, new teaching resources will be launched on Time To Talk Day 2025 that have been created to support mental health discussions in schools, with lesson plans suitable from Key Stage 2 (9-11yrs) and Key Stage 3 (11-14yrs). These resources aim to encourage young people to talk openly about their feelings and support one another.
Join the Conversation
If you haven’t heard Talk It Out yet, now is the perfect time. Listen, share, and help spread the message that no one has to face their struggles alone.
Find out more about #TalkItOut and download the track at https://www.talkitoutmusic.com/.
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