Music
Marty McFly” by ETTIE, a Nostalgic Rock-Pop Ode to Queer Love
ETTIE emerges as a refreshing and unapologetically authentic voice in a musical landscape often saturated with predictability. With her debut single “Marty McFly,” released on September 29, 2023, this London-based artist and songwriter takes listeners on a journey that seamlessly blends rock and pop influences, all while delivering a poignant tale of self-discovery, acceptance, and emotionally charged introspection.
“Marty McFly” opens with a sense of nostalgia that’s instantly recognizable to anyone who’s ever been captivated by the cult classic film of the same name. The distorted guitars and clashing drums transport listeners to the pivotal prom scene of the iconic movie. ETTIE invites listeners to hop into the DeLorean time machine with her, not to change the past but to confront it with newfound understanding and self-assurance. It’s a musical journey that encapsulates the sentimentality and wistfulness of wanting to rewrite one’s history, something we’ve all pondered at some point in our lives.
ETTIE’s lyrical prowess shines brightly on this track. She fearlessly explores the complexities of her early years as a queer individual, reflecting on moments of self-doubt and realizing her hidden desires, a treasure waiting to be unearthed. Her lyrics are unapologetically honest and heartfelt, painting a vivid picture of a queer love story that society often overlooked in mainstream narratives or disregarded. Lines like “If I could go right back to sweet 16 and do it all over again and be me, I think it would be a movie I really like,” resonate deeply, capturing the essence of embracing one’s true self, yearning for self-understanding.
Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists, from Avril Lavigne and Hayley Williams to the boy bands of the 2000s, ETTIE’s musical style is both raw and familiar. Her narrative injects fresh energy into the rock-pop genre, making her a standout artist in today’s music scene. Her debut single, “Marty McFly,” showcases her ability to craft a playful and humorous song with clever wordplay while making the introspective experience more enjoyable. However, beneath the wit lies a deep sense of reflection and the universal desire to reconcile with past experiences.
Clocking in at just over three minutes, “Marty McFly” is a musical journey of self-discovery and healing. It’s a bop that encourages listeners to confront their inner demons, dance away the pain, and a reminder that life is truly fulfilling when you embrace your authentic self. ETTIE’s playful yet profound approach to songwriting is a breath of fresh air, offering a soundtrack to those looking to heal their inner child.
ETTIE’s “Marty McFly” shines brightly in a world that sometimes discourages authenticity. It’s a song that deserves not just a place in the playlists of music enthusiasts everywhere but a special place in your heart. As ETTIE continues to share her honest and exciting music, she undoubtedly remains one of the most promising new artists.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM ETTIE’s “Marty McFly“ on Spotify.
Artist Spotlight
“Hell has frozen over” finds Sarina choosing peace over being understood
Sarina’s new track, “Hell has frozen over,” explores the less dramatic, more complicated moment of reaching the end of the road, being gaslit, ignored, rejected, and painfully lonely. It translates the emotional burnout into a rock-pop context that’s easy to understand.
“Hell has frozen over” focuses on the decision to step away, instead of explaining, defending, or seeking understanding from people who refuse to listen. The rock foundation gives it the right weight, the pop influence makes it accessible, and the focus stays on the emotional message.
Sarina’s art is the struggle of loss and being strong in yourself. It’s about understanding that protecting your peace is more important than being understood. And that’s the emotional balance that gives the release its character so that the subject matter has relevance beyond a particular circumstance.
“Hell has frozen over“ is a relief from the burden of carrying on a debate that will never be resolved. Sarina turns an experience of isolation into a statement about boundaries, resilience, and the choice not to get caught in the same cycle. The result is a record that’s at its best when it’s being true to what it feels like to finally be free from whatever has been holding you down.
Photo Credit: Andrea Hunter
Artist Spotlight
Girlhood finds summer warmth and quiet freedom on “Lemon Aid”
“Lemon Aid“ is a warm indie-pop ballad from Girlhood that finds comfort in the ordinary and weaves in a sense of release. This song is about surrendering to the moment, finding space to breathe, and letting a little lightness back in. This reflective core is surprising, given the warm summer-night feel of the track, hinting at a moment of emotional rebalancing.
Singer-songwriter Natalie Holmes has a tender personality and fronts the slow-burning “Lemon Aid.” The production supports that softness, keeping the song’s gentle mood and intimate direction front and center. Beneath the comfort is a thoughtful examination of pressure, transition, and the need to pause.
The song’s link to the streets of Stroud offers yet another layer of art to the work. Familiar places can mean something when life feels uncertain, and the emotional scene involves storefronts, parks, cafes, and leafy, winding streets. “Lemon Aid“ searches for beauty in everyday places and rituals, finding still moments that mean something without getting carried away.
The track is the first release of Girlhood’s forthcoming album, “This Will Make Sense In The End,” a more reflective chapter with hope at its heart. “Lemon Aid” is about softness, conjuring a space where dancing, wandering, and just existing can feel like a cure. It’s an unleashing of small observations and soft emotional movement and a clear indication of the thoughtful direction that Girlhood is heading next.
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