Having been one of the more prolific songwriters over the years, Ellen Woloshin recently returned to the fold to deliver her long-awaited third studio album ‘Pop Torch’, her first full-length release in fifteen years!
Bringing back more of that rich and shimmering aesthetic she has always looked to cultivate, ‘Pop Torch’ shines as a vibrant return to form for the artist at the helm. So we caught up with her to find out more about her background and what most inspires her.
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Can you tell us a bit about your musical background and how you got started in music?
I started out as a classical pianist and around the time when I was in college, I realised I wasn’t going to pursue a classical career (though I loved singing in choir which I did throughout my four years). My early professional experience was in the jingle business singing and writing radio and TV commercials. My dad was in the business so that’s what I knew, and it was only after several years doing that that I became a performing songwriter. I taught a jingle workshop and started writing with one of my students. We churned out a bunch of songs mostly in the country vain and became a duo performing countless gigs in many different venues. I then branched out to record my first album. I have recorded two more since then.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, both past and present?
I have to say my dad was one of my biggest influences. Not only was he a violinist turned ad man, but his vast knowledge of music and his non-parochial attitude towards it made a lasting impression. My voice teacher was also a key influence in shaping my live performance skills and continually provided feedback and encouragement.
Are there any specific artists or bands that have had a significant impact on your music style or approach?
Yes. Carly Simon who I emulated when I was younger. People kept saying “you sound just like her,” which was music to my ears. And always Joni Mitchell for her poetically artistic approach. Later-Paula Cole, Shawn Colvin, Natalie Cole, Eva Cassidy, Mary Fahl and most recently Billie Eilish.
Could you share any memorable moments or experiences that have shaped your musical journey so far?
Having my song recorded by Dionne Warwick back in my twenties and also opening for legendary songwriter Laura Nyro. Recording my albums were all unforgettable journeys that taught me that the process matters as much as the result.
How do you express your personal experiences and identity through your music?
I think the qualities that you hear in my singing are very much in line with the way I perceive myself. The vulnerability that I feel whether it’s joy or sadness is reflected in the subject matter I choose and how I project those feelings.
Have you faced any challenges or obstacles as a female musician, and if so, how have you overcome them?
Most definitely age can be an obstacle especially if the powers that be only know a number and not the totality of who you are and your music. Also, the limits that market-driven decisions place on an artist to stay in their lane because it’s considered an easier sell.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you aim to convey through your music?
I tend to be reflective in what I write or choose to sing even if it’s someone else’s song. I tend to favour relationship themes and subjects dealing with self-discovery and personal struggles and growth.
Can you talk about your creative process and how you go about writing and producing your music?
There is no one way to approach a new song. Sometimes it’s a title or something you hear someone say that gives you the concept. I think melodies might come more easily than lyrics for me. I’ll sing them into my little recorder to return to later. The hard part is to keep chipping away at the kernel of the idea and hang in there until you know inside that it’s complete.
How do you hope your music will resonate with your audience, especially with other aspiring female musicians?
I hope that listeners will be open to the unexpected. Though as artists we have a certain style and sound but that doesn’t necessarily limit us to one narrow pathway of creativity. I would say to aspiring female musicians to know your strengths but also challenge yourself to move out of your comfort zone.
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Listen to Ellen Woloshin’s new album ‘Pop Torch’ below.