British singer-songwriter Joy Crookes has partnered with the mental health charity Mind for the latest episode of their compelling video series, Behind The Song. The series features candid conversations with artists about the intersection of music and mental health. Following the recent release of her critically-acclaimed second album, Juniper (September 2025), Joy sat down at Jumbi, Peckham, to discuss the deeply personal stories that inspired her new music.
The conversation went beyond the music itself, exploring the urgent need to destigmatise mental health and the vital role of trusted adults in supporting young people. Crookes also voiced her hopes for a more compassionate music industry, openly discussing the current lack of mental health support for artists.
"If I was to make an agency for helping artists, it would be as simple as providing mental health services and a funny little thing called ‘HR’,” Crookes stated, highlighting a major blind spot in the industry. She noted that during the Black Lives Matter movement, one management company provided all their artists with free therapy sessions. "If that could be applied to the entirety of the music industry and all artists, I think that would make a more compassionate industry.”
Crookes, who was previously shortlisted for the BRIT Rising Star Award and had her debut album, Skin (2021), nominated for the Mercury Prize, is set to commence her latest UK headline tour in November 2025. Her involvement in Behind The Song adds a powerful voice to the series, which previously featured Mind ambassador Perrie Edwards and passionate Mind supporter YUNGBLUD.
Mind, the UK’s leading mental health charity, is committed to ensuring everyone experiencing a mental health problem receives both support and respect. Through authentic conversations like this one, Behind The Song highlights the powerful role music can play in advocating for mental well-being and driving lasting change in the industry.
