Released on 14th September 2026, “Here I Am Meant To BE” marks the fourth single from Icelandic studio project New Sunday, continuing the distinctive musical direction established through earlier releases “Echoes In The Dark” and “The Empty Street.” Based in Hafnarfjordur, Iceland, the project brings together thoughtful songwriting, expressive vocals, and carefully developed arrangements to create music that feels personal and emotionally engaging. This latest single explores the journey toward self acceptance, presenting a heartfelt reflection on overcoming painful memories, rediscovering personal worth, and embracing the possibility of a brighter future. From its intimate opening to its uplifting conclusion, the song unfolds as a moving reminder that finding peace with oneself can become a meaningful turning point in life.
The instrumental foundation establishes a warm, organic atmosphere through Einar Askelsson’s steady acoustic guitar performance. Its folk influenced character gives the composition a grounded quality, allowing the emotional narrative to remain at the forefront. Stephen Elliot’s melodic bass guitar adds movement and depth, while Peter Short’s measured percussion maintains a consistent pulse throughout the arrangement. These elements work together naturally, creating a sound that feels both comforting and purposeful. Stephanie Armstrong’s cello introduces an additional layer of emotional richness, bringing a haunting, melancholic texture that complements the reflective nature of the lyrics. The interplay between these instruments gives the track its distinctive atmosphere, balancing moments of vulnerability with an increasingly hopeful musical presence.
Shelley’s vocal performance serves as the emotional centre of “Here I Am Meant To BE,” guiding the listener through the song’s gradual transformation. The verses begin with a restrained, vulnerable delivery that communicates the weight of emotional exhaustion, particularly through the admission of being “stuck in between days.” As the composition progresses, her voice develops greater strength and openness, eventually reaching soaring heights in the chorus. This transition captures the feeling of someone slowly recovering their confidence and discovering the courage to move forward. Rather than separating the song’s sadness from its hopeful message, the vocal delivery allows both emotions to coexist, making the eventual affirmation of self worth feel sincere and deeply personal.
Lyrically, the single centres on releasing the emotional burdens of yesterday and recognising the possibilities available in the present. The declaration, “Memories are in the past. Now I’m here, not there,” expresses a conscious decision to stop allowing previous experiences to define the future. This message gains further significance through the recurring image of rising with the morning sun, which represents renewal, fresh beginnings, and the opportunity to approach life differently. As the arrangement builds toward its emotional climax, the statement “In the end, I’m good enough” becomes the heart of the song. It captures the gradual realisation that personal worth does not depend on erasing every painful experience, but on learning to move beyond those experiences with greater understanding and self compassion.
The production enhances this narrative through an intimate, well balanced presentation that gives each instrumental element room to breathe. The acoustic guitar, bass, percussion, cello, and vocals contribute distinct qualities without competing for attention. As the arrangement gradually expands, its growing intensity mirrors the movement from isolation toward acceptance and belonging. The contrast between the quieter verses and more expansive chorus gives the song a natural emotional progression, allowing its message to develop through both musical dynamics and lyrical expression. This considered approach reflects New Sunday’s songwriting philosophy, in which the melody and story guide the arrangement rather than unnecessary complexity. Every element supports the central theme, resulting in a cohesive composition that feels reflective, reassuring, and uplifting.
Here I Am Meant To BE Is A Heartfelt Anthem Of Resilience And Self Acceptance, Blending Warm Acoustic Instrumentation, Expressive Vocals, And Hopeful Melodies Into Emotional Renewal
~ Faithfulness (Dulaxi Team)
Behind New Sunday is songwriter Einar Askelsson, whose personal experiences became the foundation of his creative journey. After struggling with complex post traumatic stress disorder and prolonged anxiety, he began playing guitar each morning as part of his recovery. What started as a therapeutic practice gradually developed into a lasting passion for songwriting, combining his guitar playing with poems drawn from personal emotions and experiences. Founded in January 2026, New Sunday operates as a collaborative studio project, bringing Einar’s compositions together with vocalist Elizabet “Lizzie” and producer Simon. Using Hooktheory to develop chord progressions, melodies, and arrangements, Einar carefully shapes each song before collaborating with the vocalist and producer to refine its final sound. “Here I Am Meant To BE” reflects the emotional honesty at the heart of this process, offering a resonant expression of resilience, self discovery, and the courage to believe that a more peaceful future is possible.
For more information about New Sunday, click on the icons below.