Essy
Photo credit: Jake Matthews
Nashville-based artist Essy has released her new single “Stardust”.
Co-produced with Daniel Agee, “Stardust” came from the feeling of uncertainty and making peace with that. The new single follows her single “Missing Me Missing You” which already garnered over 46K streams on Spotify. Both songs will appear on her sophomore record, to be released early next year.
With her music, Essy hopes to empower women around the world.
“Stardust” is now available worldwide.
Photo credit: Jake Matthews
Introduce yourself— what’s your story?
I’m a singer-songwriter and producer based in Nashville, TN. Moved here almost 3 years ago after graduating from the University of Virginia. I began my music career writing and toplining or EDM artists. As a pianist, I’ve always been attracted to synth sounds + textures. I decided to combine my lyric writing with my love for synths and started a solo artist project under the alias Essy in 2019. It’s been a year since my first single released and I couldn’t be more thrilled for what’s to come in 2021!
How would you define Essy, the artist?
She’s all about dancing in the rain (or shine). She’s passionate about female empowerment, self love, speaking your truth, and feeling confident in your own skin.
What's the story/inspiration behind “Missing Me Missing You”?
It’s about taking your power back as a woman. Embracing your sexiness, loving who you are, and dancing to your own rhythm.
Could you describe the songwriting/production process? Who helped you create this song?
I wrote this song with my dear friends and co-writers Liv Miraldi and Johnluke Lewis. We went into the session pretty open-minded and ended up churning out this dark, pulsing synth groove. Dan Agee, the executive producer, has a fantastic ear for 1980s pop. He added his shine and really took the lead direction on vocals. Very proud of the way it turned out and beyond grateful for my collaborators.
Photo credit: Jake Matthews
What made you want to release "Missing Me Missing You" as a single?
I always loved the track from the moment we created it. I actually sat on the song for nearly 2 years because it was never the “right” time for it. It was a different sound for me - a little bit darker, heavier, sexier than the early synthpop sounds I experimented with. The more I leaned into my artist project, the more the song made sense to me lyrically and melodically. It’s the first track off my second EP and I think it really sets the tone for where I am going as an artist.
What can you tell us about the artwork?
The artwork was shot by my favorite human and photographer Jake Matthews. We’ve known each other for a couple years now. He’s seen me grow as a person and artist, which makes it easy for him to capture my vibe. Design wise, I drew a lot of inspiration from artists like Dua Lipa, The Weeknd, and Tove Lo.
What's the story behind your new single "Stardust"? What did you feel writing this song?
It's a story of uncertainty and learning to make peace with that. It was a song I wanted to write for a while, but never knew how. The writing process took about 3 days straight of constant editing and revision. I experienced all the emotions in that time - sadness, grief, regret, hope. It wasn't until I wrote the hook I felt a sense of peace about where I was and what I wanted to say. I think sometimes peace comes when we least expect it, but when we arrive it reminds us that the journey was definitely worth it. Writing this song allowed me to heal and grow and move forward.
What does it mean for you to be an artist?
It means being a voice for young women (even men). Bringing light to topics that need to be addressed like toxic masculinity, body confidence, and heartbreak. But addressing those topics in a dance-worthy and relatable way.
What does songwriting make you feel?
Songwriting is my favorite part of the music process. I don’t think I could be an artist if I didn’t play some role in the lyric writing process. For me, writing is very cathartic. It’s how I release my feelings. I’m actually a pretty reserved person and that’s a part of my personality I value. Songwriting allows me to share sides of myself and stories I generally keep quiet.
What's the hardest part about being an artist? And what is the best part?
The hardest part is playing all the roles you have to play. As an artist these days it’s almost required that you’re a writer, a producer, a social media expert…your hands are in many different baskets. The best part is knowing that the music you release speaks to someone. Whether it helps them through a breakup or changes their perspective on something, I love connecting with people. Being an artist allows me to do that on a whole new level.
Why do you make music? What keeps you going?
Music has always been an escape for me. A place I go to feel happy, to grieve, to make peace. I want to bring that life to other people as well. Knowing my music can help someone, in whatever way that may be, fuels my creativity.
What do you want to accomplish professionally and personally?
Professionally, I would love to get to a place where I can collaborate with some of my biggest music influencers. Personally, I want to keep growing. I don’t really have an end goal there, but rather want to continue pushing and challenging myself. With growth comes new creativity and I love finding that.
What major life lesson have you learned this year?
Slow down. When you slow down, you’re able to listen to your mind and body. I think that connection is very important. Your body will tell you everything you need to know in order to heal, grow, and cultivate happiness.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
If we all listened a little bit more to each other! Active listening is something I personally have been trying to work on. Instead of offering solutions to everyone’s issues, sometimes the solution is to sit back and let the other person feel heard. In a world where it feels like were just another face on a screen, I think letting people know you care by hearing them out is a beautiful and simple way to better relationships and mental health.
What message do you want to deliver to the world?
Live the life truest to yourself, even in the smallest decisions you make.
Connect with Essy: