"17 Going Under" was officially released on September 8, 2021. This album marked a key moment in Sam Fender’s career, following the success of his debut album, Hypersonic Missiles. As fans eagerly awaited his follow-up, "17 Going Under" came to fruition with themes of nostalgia, personal growth, and resilience.
Before the release of 17 Going Under, Sam Fender had already gained significant recognition with his 2019 debut album Hypersonic Missiles. This album introduced his signature blend of anthemic rock and deeply introspective lyrics. Fans and critics alike praised his honesty and unique voice in an otherwise saturated indie rock scene.
In the years between his debut and sophomore album, Sam Fender went through personal struggles, which would later fuel the themes of 17 Going Under. The process of creating the album was marked by a period of self-reflection, where he looked back at his life as a 17-year-old growing up in the UK. The title itself serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges he faced during his youth.
The album’s themes are rich and multifaceted, delving into topics such as mental health, growing pains, family dynamics, and the pressures of fame. Tracks like the title song “17 Going Under” reflect Fender’s struggles with his past and his ongoing efforts to reconcile with his identity. Many listeners found the album deeply relatable, as it captured the essence of growing up and confronting one’s past.
Here’s a look at the 17 Going Under tracklist, which features 12 songs:
Each track reflects Sam Fender’s unique style, blending raw emotion with infectious rock melodies.
"17 Going Under" resonated with a broad audience due to its mixture of powerful storytelling and anthemic soundscapes. Sam Fender’s ability to capture universal emotions like heartbreak, frustration, and self-doubt is what made the album so popular. His mix of indie rock and soul-searching lyrics gave the album the staying power to become one of the most talked-about releases of 2021.
Upon its release, 17 Going Under soared to the top of the UK Albums Chart. The album debuted at No. 1, further cementing Sam Fender’s place as one of the leading figures in the UK music scene. Critics lauded the album for its maturity and depth, which clearly resonated with a wide audience.
Critics were quick to praise 17 Going Under for its authenticity, powerful songwriting, and bold sound. Many noted that the album was a significant step forward from Fender’s debut. Tracks like “Seventeen Going Under” and “Aye” were hailed as highlights of the album, with their introspective lyrics and infectious energy.
The success of 17 Going Under elevated Sam Fender to even greater heights. Not only did it showcase his growth as a musician, but it also solidified his reputation as a storyteller and a voice for his generation. The album’s success allowed Fender to reach a broader audience, and its relatable themes made him a household name in the UK and beyond.
As mentioned, Sam Fender was deeply influenced by his past and his experiences growing up in the working-class town of North Shields. Many of the songs on 17 Going Under reflect on the struggles of youth, the difficulty of family relationships, and the challenges of navigating adulthood. In interviews, Fender has mentioned how the album was a way to confront his own personal demons, including mental health issues and trauma.
Along with the release of the album, several music videos were produced for tracks like “Seventeen Going Under,” “Aye,” and “Getting Started.” These videos helped bring the songs to life, adding another layer of depth to the already emotionally charged tracks. The videos often feature powerful visuals that mirror the themes of the songs, making them even more impactful.
After the album’s release, Sam Fender embarked on a highly anticipated tour to promote 17 Going Under. The tour took him across the UK and even internationally, where fans were eager to hear the new tracks live. His performances were widely praised for their energy, and the album’s singles were met with enthusiastic crowd reactions.
There’s a noticeable evolution in Sam Fender’s music between his debut album Hypersonic Missiles and 17 Going Under. While his debut focused on themes of political unrest and the struggles of the modern world, 17 Going Under shifts its focus to more personal and intimate topics. This transition allowed Fender to display his versatility as an artist and further engage his audience with his honesty.
Fans of Sam Fender quickly embraced 17 Going Under upon its release. Many took to social media to express their love for the album, with some even describing it as a "masterpiece." The album’s emotional depth and relatable themes resonated with listeners who appreciated Fender’s vulnerability in addressing mental health, family, and youth.
17 Going Under was a defining moment in Sam Fender’s career, marking the release of a record that showcased his growth as both an artist and a person. Its release on September 8, 2021 resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, thanks to its authentic storytelling and powerful melodies. If you haven’t yet explored 17 Going Under, it’s a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary rock music and heartfelt lyrics.
