Former Calgarian Lindsay Ell digs deep into herself on new albu

Lindsay Ell has gone through a period of self-discovery and transformation in recent years, but this has only fueled her creative fire. As she sits down for an interview to discuss her new EP “Love Myself,” the Calgary-born musician exudes a vibrant energy that is reflected in her new violet hair.

This new look is just one of the changes in Ell’s life. After questioning her trajectory as a country artist and seeking help to address a health crisis, she has emerged with a fresh perspective and a shift towards recording introspective alt-pop songs. “I’ve never been more excited to share my music with the world,” she shares as she settles into the offices of her record label in Toronto. “For the first time in a long time, I’ve been able to create the music that truly resonates with me.”

The journey to this point has been marked by personal challenges. Ell parted ways with her management, signed with Universal Music Canada, and confronted an eating disorder. Despite the hurdles, she remains resilient and driven. Following this interview, she rushes off to Niagara Falls to film Citytv’s “Canada’s Got Talent,” a show she hosts. This is followed by a trip to Nashville for songwriting sessions in Los Angeles and a return to Las Vegas to play as lead guitarist in Shania Twain’s residency.

The fast-paced schedule is a stark contrast to the introspective period Ell experienced. A wellness retreat with industry friends outside Nashville allowed her to address past traumas and personal issues, setting her on a path of emotional healing. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought the music industry to a halt, forcing Ell to confront her identity beyond her career.

Reflecting on her journey from aspiring musician mentored by Randy Bachman to a country star, Ell realized she never quite fit the traditional country mold. She struggled with the expectation to include traditional country elements in her music, feeling inauthentic on stage at times.

As live shows resumed post-pandemic, Ell’s internal struggles came to a head. She found herself facing anorexia subtype binge-purge, a condition she had developed as a coping mechanism for past traumas, including surviving sexual assault. Seeking help, Ell underwent therapy and deep introspection, leading to the creation of her new EP “Love Myself.”

Co-produced with Doug Schadt, known for his work with Maggie Rogers, the EP delves into Ell’s vulnerabilities through melodic pop music. Songs like “Wanna be somebody who loves their body, but I hate my body” and “The Hard Way” showcase Ell’s raw emotions and personal growth.

Despite the shift towards alt-pop, Ell emphasizes that she is not turning her back on country music. She simply wants to create music that is authentic and resonates with her audience. As she continues her musical journey, Ell remains true to herself and her artistry.

This article was inspired by a report by The Canadian Press published on November 3, 2024.