“A TRUE HIDDEN GEM” EDINBURGH ARTIST ELLA KENNEDY EMERGES WITH STUNNING NEW SINGLE ‘TRY(ING)’

SINGLE REVIEW | ELLA KENNEDY – TRY(ING) by Corin McDonald 5/5

A true hidden gem, nestled in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, soul-pop artist Ella Kennedy has emerged to bless us with her new single ‘Try(ing)’. Working closely with producer James Allen, this will be the second song from Ella’s debut EP ‘The Observer’ that releases in full on July 19th.

Having shared her first ever release ‘I Fell A Little Bit Out Of Love’ just a matter of weeks ago, Ella has achieved radio airplay on BBC Introducing, Radio Scotland and Amazing Afternoons with Frankie Francis. Gracing local stages such as Sneaky Pete’s and even delighting smaller venues like Steampunk Coffee in North Berwick, this rising superstar is creating a very dedicated audience.

‘Try(ing)’ is a truly gorgeous song, BBC Introducing’s Phoebe and Shereen likened it to a “diary entry”, which feels like such an accurate way to describe the intimacy of this song. It is deeply personal especially in lines like; “I’ve been seeking validation in all of the wrong faces” – adding a confessional element to the track. Having had the privilege of meeting the lovely Ella, I can safely say this song is a beautifully genuine piece of art that shows the world a very honest reflection of this up and coming artist.

Ella cleverly sheds light on how tough the music industry can be; there are constant setbacks and battles that can be extremely difficult to overcome. There is progression throughout, as the beginning of the song discusses the struggles of being a young musician who has a passion that they want to pursue yet there are so many obstacles. This passion of the Edinburgh musician really shines through in this line “I wanna work hard enough to say I shed blood, sweat and tears” demonstrating how much she wants to work for this. Toward the end of the track, the bridge takes on a whole new positive attitude, really showcasing a shift in mindset. The lines “Didn’t miss a starting gun, this is not a hit and run, there’s always room for more than one, your time too shall come”, are repeated like a mantra, encouraging herself and others that they haven’t missed an opportunity. I think this is so important for upcoming musicians to have a balanced view of the industry and to be able to encourage yourself without comparing or degrading other musicians.

One of my favourite lines appears in the second verse – “I’ve been looking up to this version of myself for as long as I remember, I’m in her shoes, she’s in the mirror”. This is when a drum beat is introduced and there is a lively sense of hope that is wonderfully conveyed through Ella’s effortlessly breathy yet strong, powerful vocals that are smoother than the smoothest of butters. There is a gradual build up that is heavily motivated by the layering of harmonies and a crisp, sparkling guitar tone that decorates the melody.

Listening to Ella Kennedy feels like discovering a new Lizzy McAlpine that we’re not supposed to know yet – she is truly something special.