Whether performing at coffee shops or on stages, rising artist Bella Kaye has become known for her own unique style. Her latest track, “Empty Promises,” is a reflection of that style with its engaging pop melody and emotional lyrics.
We chatted with the Southern California based singer-songwriter about her single, growing up in Chicago, what fans can expect next and more.
How did you first become interested in music?
I’ve always loved to listen and sing to music. I was introduced to music when I was six months old through “mommy and me” music classes. Growing up, I also saw many concerts for kids, one being ‘The Wiggles’, which supposedly was my favorite band when I was about three years old. I grew up listening to music and became a fan of Taylor Swift and pop music. I started learning piano and joined the Chicago Children’s Choir when I was 8 years old. As I got older, I started developing my voice and realized singing, songwriting and performing are my passions. So to sum it up, I guess I’ve always been interested in music for as long as I can remember.
You have been performing since you were young in musical theater and the Chicago Children’s Choir. What draws you to performing?
Performing on stage is such an amazing feeling. Whenever I’m performing I feel at home and in my element. When I was young, I’ve always loved to put on shows for my family. I would sing and dance around the house for hours, especially if I had an audience. Nowadays I always get nervous before I perform but after a song or two, I get into my groove and the nerves subside.
Who are some of your inspirations and have they influenced your sound?
Taylor Swift is a huge inspiration of mine. I really admire her storytelling and that has definitely influenced how I write music. I grew up listening to her, and she is still my favorite artist to this day, so elements of her sound and style influence mine as well.
Madison Beer is another inspiration of mine. I love her songs and think she has amazing vocal techniques. This inspires me to incorporate those elements in my own music and sound.
You grew up in Chicago? Do you think Chicago had any influence on your sound?
Yes, I lived in Chicago for the first 11 years of my life. I feel like the experiences I had in Chicago helped prepare me for taking my music to the next level. Being a member of the Chicago Children’s Choir and doing musical theater provided me with a foundation. When I moved into the next phase of my music, I was able to build on everything I had learned in Chicago.
What was the inspiration behind your new single, “Empty Promises”?
The inspiration for this song was taken from a situation in my life that deeply affected me. When I write songs, I take inspiration from things in my life, sometimes things that have impacted me directly or from what I observe is happening around me.
What was the writing process like for “Empty Promises”?
I wrote this song on piano. Usually I write my songs on guitar but this song, along with my song “Heartache,” were written on piano. The first thing I wrote was the pre-chorus (which is probably a first for me) and the last thing I wrote was the second half of the first verse. I spent a good amount of time on this song analyzing the lyrics and making sure the story was being told as I envisioned. The writing process for “Empty Promises” was a great way for me to cope with my feelings.
Your lyrics are very relatable. What has it been like to see your songs resonate with listeners?
It’s been awesome. It’s a great feeling when I know my music connects with someone and helps them feel less alone. That is always a goal of mine when I put out music.
If you could set fans up in the perfect environment to listen to “Empty Promises,” what do you imagine it looking like?
I would imagine someone being alone in a space where they feel grounded and centered, maybe a bedroom, curled up in a blanket which a cup of tea beside them so that they could really listen and take in each lyric. I hope people could use this song to help process their own emotions.
You recently released a cover of the 60s song “Happy Together” by The Turtles. What drew you to that song and what was it like to put your own spin on it?
The first time I heard the song I was immediately drawn to it. I thought it would sound super cool slowed down with a sadder twist, so it inspired me to create my own version. I really enjoyed putting my own spin on it by creating a musical arrangement that was dark and somber with emotions of longing and desire. I have done covers in the past but I had never gone through the full production process of “re-creating” a cover. I really enjoyed this experience.
What can fans expect next?
I just finished recording vocals for my next original single. This one has a more edgy, “over it” type of vibe than my other songs. I’m not sure when it will be released yet but I’m hoping for early fall. Stay tuned for an exact release date…you can follow my instagram @iambellakaye.
What is one quote that you have heard or that you go by that you want to ECHO out to the world?
“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself” ~ Thich Nhat Hanh