A Gentle Anthem for Daydreamers, Nature Lovers, and Quiet Rebels
MIDDLEBURY, VT (May 15, 2026) - Independent folk-pop artist Melissa D (Melissa Durkee Moorhouse) announces the release of her new single, “Songbird,” arriving May 15, 2026. Rooted in the lush landscapes of Vermont’s Green Mountains, the track is a soothing, nature-infused reflection on self-trust, renewal, and the quiet power of one’s inner voice.
Known for creating “songs for daydreamers & gentle rebels,” Melissa D continues to carve a deeply personal and independent path. A classically trained vocalist, her musical journey has spanned from fronting the rock band The Alley Katz to collaborating on the folk-rock project CHILL. Since 2016, she has focused on releasing solo work from her rural New England home, choosing an intentional, soul-driven approach over traditional industry routes.
Despite working without a label or major promotional backing, Melissa’s music has resonated with thousands of listeners worldwide and has been featured on outlets such as Vermont Public, Women of Substance Radio, and Sip-N-Stream. Her song “Little Girl” earned a nomination for Best Song of America (American Roots) at the 2021 InterContinental Music Awards.
Arielle Thomas Photography
The more I watched and listened, the more I realized this song wasn’t just about the bird—it was about remembering my own voice.”
Melissa D
“Songbird” is a gently transportive, nature-soaked track inspired by the wood thrush and its return to Vermont each spring. Through vivid sensory details and poetic imagery, the song invites listeners into a quiet moment of wonder and connection with the natural world. Unfolding like a soft conversation between human and bird, it blends curiosity, admiration, and introspection.
Written during a period of personal reflection, the song became a pathway back to presence and self-trust. At its heart, “Songbird” serves as both a tribute to nature and a tender reclaiming of one’s own voice.
Musically, the track features warm, expressive vocals layered over acoustic guitar, mandolin, viola, and silky percussion. The sound is delicate yet grounded—evoking a sense of calm, like sitting on a back deck watching birds drift through the sky. With subtle hints of classic vocal warmth and an intimate folk sensibility, “Songbird” offers a lilting, daydream-like listening experience.
Arielle Thomas Photography
I started ‘Songbird’ on my back deck, cloud-watching when a bird flew so close overhead I could hear this subtle whip sound as the wings were flapping. That moment sparked everything.”
Melissa D
Melissa D’s work is rooted in her identity as “The Daydreamer”, an artist who creates for introspective listeners, quiet creatives, and those seeking refuge from the noise of hustle culture. Her music celebrates sensitivity, imagination, and emotional depth, offering a sense of belonging to those who often feel out of place in louder spaces.
Beyond music, Melissa has dedicated over 20 years to public service as a counselor and advocate, alongside ongoing commitments to animal rescue and humanitarian causes.
Arielle Thomas Photography
Credits
- Vocals: Melissa D
- Produced by: Colin McCaffrey
- Harmony Vocals: Marianne Donahue Perchlik
- Written by: Melissa D Moorhouse (BMI Publishing)
- Cover Art: Jason Bemis
- Photography: Arielle Thomas
This project is supported in part by the Vermont Arts Council and the Vermont Community Foundation.
With “Songbird,” Melissa D invites listeners to slow down, reconnect with nature, and rediscover the quiet strength of their own inner rhythm, a timely message of radical joy, self-care, and gentle rebellion.
Arielle Thomas Photography
About Melissa Durkee Moorhouse
Melissa Durkee Moorhouse, known artistically as Melissa D, hails from the rolling hills of rustic Vermont, USA. Her music is earthy, chill, and holistic. It's perfect for those seeking calm, connection, and a touch of lighthearted fun.
A classically trained vocalist, Melissa’s journey spans from fronting the rock band The Alley Katz, where she shared the stage with musicians like Joe Moore (Pork Tornado: Jon Fishman of Phish) and Benjamin Orr (The Cars), to co-creating the folk-rock collaboration CHILL with Michael Cressey
Since 2016, Melissa has quietly forged her own musical path, recording and releasing her solo work from her small rural home in New England. Partnering with producers Clint Bierman (The Grift), Kristina Stykos, Phil Henry and most recently Colin McCaffrey, she has chosen to bypass the traditional industry grind, big tours, record deals, and relocation in favor of an independent, soul-driven approach.
Despite no label, corporate sponsorship, or major promotion, Melissa D's soothing, heartfelt songs have reached thousands of listeners worldwide. Her music has been featured on Vermont Public, Women of Substance Radio, and Sip-N-Stream, among others. Her song “Little Girl” (the title track from her solo EP) was nominated for Best Song of America (American Roots genre) in the 2021 InterContinental Music Awards.
Beyond music, Melissa is deeply committed to animal rescue and humanitarian causes. She dedicated 20 years to public service as a counselor and advocate, making a lasting impact on countless lives.