Singer-songwriter Marsha Swanson has released her new single, “Something Real,” introducing TroubleChutes, an ambitious creative project that combines music, storytelling, illustration, education, and emotional literacy.
Developed over more than two decades, TroubleChutes is designed to help children better understand and express their emotions through songs, characters, and imaginative storytelling. “Something Real” explores the relationship between fantasy and reality, reflecting the project’s belief that music and stories can provide children with a safe space to explore complex feelings.
The single features additional production and mastering from acclaimed producer Stuart Epps, whose credits include Elton John, Led Zeppelin, and Chris Rea. Musician and presenter Henry Thomas, known for BBC Rockschool, also contributes to the release alongside keyboardist Paul Hirsch.
Beyond the music, TroubleChutes has expanded into a wider educational initiative, including a whole-school emotional literacy resource published by Karnac Books. The project has also been piloted in schools and continues to grow through television, animation, and publishing.
Despite its broad scope, Swanson says music remains at the centre of everything. “Songwriting is where everything begins,” she explains. “Music has always been the place where psychology, philosophy and storytelling come together most naturally for me.”
With “Something Real,” Swanson opens the door to a project that aims to spark imagination, conversation, and emotional understanding through the power of song.
