Colin 
We are thrilled with the news that Shannon Gillespie’s ‘The Runner’, is arriving on 19th December. As early supporters, we have followed her evolution from her initial 2023 releases, which featured delicately delivered vocals focusing on deep, heartbreaking moments.Since then, she has evolved dramatically, most notably with the sparkling indie-pop anthem ‘One for the Road’.
Now, ‘The Runner – her second and final single of the year – presents itself as a forward-facing reset rather than a conclusion. The track acts as a marker of intent because it is shaped by reflection and momentum instead of recap. From the outset, it signals a shift toward high energy and clearer direction, continuing the fuller band sound she adopted following her first headline show. The release also validates our inclusion of her as one of our Artists to Watch in 2024. It feels instantly punchy and focused.
‘The Runner’ leans into movement through a steady rhythmic pulse that carries the song from start to finish. The arrangement stays active. It smartly keeps the tempo high so Shannon’s clear vocal and lyric remain central. This drive supports the core idea of waiting and belief. It allows the sense of motion to do the work rather than leaning on slow builds.
Lyrically, the track centres on hope tempered by self-awareness. Shannon frames herself as a romantic who continues to believe something meant for her will arrive “sprinting” her way. She does this while recognising the risk of disappointment. That feeling connects personal relationships with wider ambition. It lets the two sit alongside each other. The writing captures a sense of “delusion” that feels relatable and honest. This is a compelling contrast to the pure heartbreak of her earlier work and the late-night chaos of ‘One for the Road’. The track grounds itself in inner dialogue rather than sweeping claims.
‘The Runner’ marks the start of the Shannon Gillespie Cinematic Universe
Vocally, the performance feels alive and emotive. Shannon avoids playing it safe. She chooses an energetic delivery to carry the narrative. This approach keeps the track moving at a consistent, driving pace. The chorus lifts the energy instantly without breaking flow. It acts as a continuation of the “emotive, high-energy chaos” she aimed to create. Each section feeds naturally into the next. This reinforces the sense of forward pull.
The response ahead of the release has already shaped how Shannon views the track. She shared that ‘The Runner’ has become her most pre-saved song to date. This reception strengthened her confidence in the direction she is taking. For her, this reaction suggests alignment between sound and audience rather than a momentary spike in attention.
Looking beyond the single, Shannon confirmed that her first music video will follow in the new year. The visual intends to kick-start the “Shannon Gillespie Cinematic Universe”. It offers deeper insight into her creative identity. This step marks a shift in presentation because it moves toward a cohesive visual approach. It sits alongside the music rather than trailing behind it.
Alongside digital plans, Shannon is preparing to give ‘The Runner’ its live debut. She will perform at The Jacaranda on January 29th for Independent Venues Week, joined by Orlagh Niamh and Scarlett Rosetta. Bringing the song onto the stage adds a practical dimension to its release. It grounds the track in performance and audience connection rather than leaving it solely within the studio space. Furthermore, Shannon uses her platform to raise awareness for the Liverpool Bereavement Service, a charity that supported her through a devastating personal loss in 2022.
Review
This track is an immediate, irresistible rush. With ‘The Runner’ Shannon Gillespie hits you with a blast of pure, driving momentum that demands you move. Shannon’s fantastic personality is infused into every note, turning the high-energy pulse into a rallying cry for the hopeless romantic. The production is sharp and focused, ensuring that her vocal, which is rich with determined feeling, cuts straight through the mix. Her performance is full of fire, delivering that emotive, chaotic sound she promised, making the core theme of belief feel completely urgent.
The song is fiercely catchy, designed to stick with you long after the final beat fades. It’s an undeniable statement of forward motion, proving that the tighter pacing works brilliantly with her confident delivery. We are left completely energised and ready to follow her into whatever cinematic future she has planned. This is not just a song; it’s the sound of an artist stepping into her prime and inviting you to join the race.
You can pre-save ‘The Runner’ here and follow Shannon Gillespie over on Instagram.