Ekelle
Blending confidence with vulnerability, Ekelle dives into heartbreak, growth, and self-worth on “(Turn Me) Loose,” exploring new sonic territory while delivering an empowering anthem about knowing your value and moving forward.
1. Your new single “(Turn Me) Loose” feels both empowering and emotionally honest. What inspired you to write this breakup anthem, and was there a specific moment or experience behind it?
Breakup songs are so interesting because they work on multiple levels, and I think that’s how I got to writing the single. As I was writing about a breakup, I realized that songs like this can also go beyond relationships and apply to an unbalanced friendship or your job. In each scenario, someone doesn’t appreciate who you are, underestimates you, and tries to put you in a box. I tried to channel the overlapping feelings to create something everyone can relate to.
2. The track expands beyond your usual Hood Pop sound into more electronic and dance-driven territory. What pushed you to experiment with this style for this release?
That’s a great question! Every time I begin to write new music, I’ll listen to my favourite songs across genres. I do this to really break down what I like about them. I love UK-House tracks, especially garage. Something kept pulling me in that direction, so I decided to follow it. It still allowed me to be me as an artist; I could still sing and rap, just with a little difference in production. I think it’s important to keep working on your sound and growing.
3. Lyrics like “you blew up a goldmine, I’m once in a lifetime” really stand out with confidence and self-worth. How important is it for you to create music that empowers listeners, especially after difficult relationships?
I think there’s a time to cry and a time to celebrate with breakups. Of course, you’re going to be upset, but it won’t last forever. That being said, the healing process does take time and can’t be rushed through. There are a lot of songs to help you release tough emotions, so I wanted this one to be part of the glow-up that comes after that period of reflection. Having a simple mantra like ‘I’m The Prize’ can really help you think of the ways you shine, whether you’re on the dancefloor or washing dishes. Having those positive reminders helps us move forward.
4. You seamlessly switch between rapping and singing on “(Turn Me) Loose.” How do you decide which emotions are better expressed through rap versus melody?
It just depends on the song. Sometimes I start out from the beginning, knowing I want it to be a rap song, but even with that, you need a balance between fast and slow. Then sometimes I’ll do a song with just singing, then I might add a rap if I feel like I’m not able to convey all my ideas within those verses and hook. That’s what happened with (Turn Me) Loose. Just needed a little something extra! Production plays a heavy part as well. Sometimes, I hear a beat and just know that there needs to be some rap. Rap is really great for emphasizing the message of your song in a unique way.
5. Working with producer Audio Gibbs helped shape the sleek, energetic vibe of the song. What was the creative process like in the studio, and how did the collaboration influence the final result?
I met Audio Gibbs during a studio session with a group of artists. We formed a bit of a bond there first, and we both got to see what the other one could do. I did some digging into his catalogue and was really impressed with the variety in what he had been creating. I had been working on the idea for (Turn Me) Loose for a while and thought he’d be a great collaborator. I described what I was going for and he sent me some demos. I knew which one I wanted instantly! When we actually got into the studio it was great because he could help coach me to project a certain energy or ask important questions that help formulate the final product. I booked lots of time so we could really get the most out of the session.
6. As an artist defining your sound as “Hood Pop,” how do you see your music evolving in the future, and what can fans expect from Ekelle after “(Turn Me) Loose”?
Another great question! I’m in the process of creating an album so I definitely want to show growth in ability and progression in the overall sound. I’ve been doing things to expand my range like taking vocal lessons. This will help me improve as a singer and allow me to add to my skills as a rapper. I’ll always continue to rap and sing. I’m actively writing and recording so I’ll definitely be dropping something for the summer.
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