Natalie McCool marks ‘new musical era’ with the release of her next single

After releasing her incredibly well-received album ‘Memory Girl’ in 2021 – featuring standout singles Devils, A Sun Going Down, Take Me To Your Leader, followed by a definitive album title track – Natalie McCool makes a powerful return with her anthemic new pop single I Fantasise, out 4th June 2025.

Marking the beginning of an exciting new musical era, I Fantasise offers a bold glimpse into Natalie’s evolving sound – a vibrant, nostalgic twist on pop that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Charmingly tongue-in-cheek, and taking inspiration from tales of dreamy summer romance, I Fantasise harks back to classic summer hits such as Summer of 69 and Born In The USA.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the track, Natalie says:

“I wrote I Fantasise about a summer crush that reignites every year but always stays just out of reach. It’s about the thrill of that connection, and the burning question that always remains: Is this summer going to be the one?

At the time, I was obsessed with huge summer anthems like Summer of ’69 by Bryan Adams, Born in the USA by Bruce Springsteen, and The Boys of Summer by Don Henley – timeless songs with that expansive, retro feel. I wanted to create my own version of that kind of track… and I Fantasise emerged.”

In addition to writing, recording, producing, and mixing the track herself, Natalie set one more challenge: to open up her creative world to new collaborators. The single features guest vocals from rising artist Ellysse Mason, who boasts over 1 million followers on TikTok.

“I’ve known Ellysse for a long time – we’ve moved in similar circles in the Northern music scene, and I’ve always loved her voice and style, which blends a retro vibe with something really current. I asked if she’d like to sing the bridge section on I Fantasise, and she said yes! Our voices complement each other so naturally – I couldn’t be more excited that she’s part of this track.”

Natalie’s previous album ‘Memory Girl’ was a major milestone in the Liverpudlian’s career to date, receiving a wealth of support from media and fans alike, with the album vinyl Pre-Order campaign fulfilling itself to £3k within just two weeks of announcing the then-untitled album to her fans.

Singles from the album received major support across the board, with airplay from BBC Radio 1, BBC Introducing, and Amazing Radio, and tastemaker support from Wonderland, The Line of Best Fit, Record of the Day, The Most Radicalist, and When The Horn Blows, amongst many others.

Following the album’s release, Natalie decided to write its title track Memory Girl in response to treasured memories shared by her fans – a deeply personal gesture that resonated strongly with listeners. The single’s release in 2022 led into a busy period of live shows, including an official showcase at SXSW in Austin, Texas, a headline UK tour, a support slot with The Wombats on their Fix Yourself Not The World album tour, and major festival appearances including Kendal Calling and a main stage set at Deer Shed Festival.

UPCOMING LIVE DATES

25.05.25 – Gorilla, Manchester w/ Milltown Brothers and Riding The Low
30.07.25 – The Cavern, Liverpool for BBC Introducing
03.08.25 – Kendal Calling, Cumbria
09.08.25 – LakeFest, Herefordshire

Listen to ‘I Fantasie’ by Natalie McCool here.

Discover more music news in Liverpool here.

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