Earlier this week I had an opportunity to interview an amazing artist who has become a friend of mine over the last few years. Her name is DaniEle aka Ella Starr and she is one of the amazing artist who’s music will be featured on the Girl Play series im working on this Fall. We chatted about her new album “Ready“, and her desire to further her career in music. enjoy and get to know Ella Starr a little better!

Interview

Tell us about the new project your working on.

 I’m currently working on my next album entitled “Ready,” which will be my second album produced by Selah (producer of Linwood Underground). I’m so excited about it… It’s going to be huge. It’s something my supporters haven’t really heard from me thus far. It’s really fun and sassy this time around.

What was your vision for this album while taking on the creative thought process?

I’ve definately been more concious of taking my time with this album. I’m making sure I go with my gut and let my creativity take over conceptually.I want it to be fun and upbeat but heartfelt all the same. It’s very important to me not to rush. If that means this album doesn’t get released until next year, sobeit. I want to make sure I have the room to relax and let things come to me without worrying so much about a finish line.

Thats smart. Tell us about your favorite song from the album and what insipred you to write it.

I know you’ll hate this but… I’m not sure!! I’m not finished yet, but I will say there is a song called Addicted I like a lot because it’s so much different than anything I’ve ever done. I have to thank Selah for that because he has truly been challenging me to think outside the box and just make music I’m proud of, no matter the “genre.” He’s inspired me to be free in the music and do what I do best. I trust myself a lot more as a writer because of it.

Tell us about your journey as an artist. What are some things you’ve learned about the industry and life in general while pursuing your career?

Through my experience with becoming a recording artist, creating entire pieces of work, traveling outside my home state, shaking hands, learning from Grammy award winners and walking in and out of industry doors, I’ve learved one particular thing: Nothing is going to be handed to you. Period. It’s not about how talented you are. No one is entirely impressed with how well I can sing or perform. It’s about the work you’re willing to put in. That’s just the way it is in this game. I believe in the talent that I have as a vocalist and writer, along with an awesome producer and team on my side infused with that work ethic and drive – I have the icing on top, hands down.

Are there any artist you would like to work with in the near future?

I’d love to sit down with Frank Ocean and learn from his journey. I think he would give me great advice and inspiration as a writer. His abilty to tell a story is amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it.

I thnk we all want to sit down and ick Frak Ocean’s brain. Last question. Where do you see yourself as an artist in the next year?

 By this time next year, I believe I’ll be touring, bringing my dreams to pass, and making everyone stop and ask about me ;-)

Click HERE to listen to Ella Eh’s song from her last mixtape “Midnight Mixtape”.