ELLISE - ‘CHAOTIC’

The last 18 months of universal uncertainty have somehow enabled a landscape for young artists to showcase their gifts. ‘Ellise’ - the 22 year old San Francisco native has become championed for her ability to add a mercurial edge to youthful revolt culture. Ellise exercises her voice through themes of individuality, relationships and sexuality.

Her upcoming debut album ‘CHAOTIC’ looks to highlight her strengths as an artist, while also disclosing the hardships of society’s expectations for young adults.  Her recently released single ‘Over Breakfast’ stands as a convicting reality check for her relationship issues.

In the track, Ellise recounts the despair of a romantic relationship beginning to fade. The ambiance of fragile instrumentation makes for a compelling backdrop to an all-too-relatable story. As her debut album approaches, we managed to catch up with her and discuss her journey. 

Interview by MATHEW SIEBUHR

How would you define your music to potential new listeners? 

I would describe my music as alternative pop, with dark influences and a strong element of storytelling in a very specific way.

Explain the joy that comes with making music that resonates with the reality of human experience? 

For me, making music is the only way I know how to express myself. I’ve always been awful with my words when it comes to talking, and communication has been one of my hardest obstacles with people I love. Writing lyrics and singing them is truly the one way I have been able to get out my emotions in a healthy way because in my personal life I usually bottle everything up until I explode. Making a song about a situation can release that energy in a healthier way for me.

Where does your passion for music stem from? 

I’ve always loved singing since I was a baby. There are videos of me from before I could talk, humming along to whatever was playing on TV. My love for singing and music only grew as I got older, and eventually stemmed into a new love for songwriting as well. I’m not really sure where the passion came from, all I know is it’s been my only passion since I can remember. It has always felt like a calling.

How have the relationships in your life affected the success of your career so far? 

I think my romantic relationships (which have been historically unhealthy and toxic), have actually helped me in music. I constantly have a new pain or strong emotion to write about, and with each traumatic event or heartbreak, it expands my mind to deeper songwriting and more emotional music. 

What are the most important components of a good relationship? 

Honestly, I’m probably the worst person to ask. I have to figure this out myself still. However, I will say something I’ve learned is that love is NOT the only vital thing in a relationship. Someone can love you, sure, but that does not automatically mean that they respect you, value you, or that they’ll be trustworthy. In my opinion, things like this are just as important as love.