It’s been a couple of years since we first had the pleasure of interviewing Pop/R&B sensation Maria Ellis. At the time, she shared with us how music is a fundamental part of her life and how singing brings out the happiest version of herself. She also explained how artists like Rihanna and Beyoncé influence her music, inspiring her to make listeners feel as important as these two superstars do with her.
Now, after nearly two years, the New York-based singer has spoken with us again to present her new single “Gone,” released today. In the past two years, she made room for collaboration projects, teaming up with Ryan Nevis on the single “Brand New” and with VeeAlwaysHere on two singles, including a cover of the Christmas classic “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.”
“Gone,” her first release of 2024, continues the journey toward her debut EP, set to be released this year. In 2022, Maria gave us the first hint at the project, stating, “My upcoming debut EP is my first real statement as an artist.” Leading the way to the EP’s release, Maria revealed to us that a new single is coming next March, and it’s her “favorite song I’ve ever made.”
In her exclusive interview with InMusic, Maria Ellis delves into her new single, debut EP, and more!
Hello, Maria! First of all, congratulations on your new release, “Good”—your first in nearly two years. How do you feel about your return, and in what ways do you think you’ve grown as an artist during this time?
Thank you so much! I’m so excited to release my original music in 2024. In the past 2 years I’ve released Brand New with Ryan Nevis, and 2 tracks with VeeAlwaysHere. In the past 2 years I’ve been able to work with so many incredible artists and producers. As a writer, and as a producer, I’m always creating and growing. I have new music coming that will hopefully not only show my abilities as a singer, but as an overall artist.
In your first interview with InMusic, you mentioned Rihanna and Beyoncé as your primary influences. Now, after two years, are there any additional artists who have particularly inspired you?
I still love and listen to those women constantly, but I really love Kali Uchis so much. She’s also a producer, and makes such incredible music, while also hitting multiple genres and languages. I also am extremely influenced by Lana Del Rey. She’s the songwriter of our generation.
Can you tell us about your new single “Gone”?
Gone is a fun dance pop track. I wrote the lyrics and recorded my own vocals. The song is produced by Musa, who also worked on my 2021 single “Luv=Dumb” and 2 other tracks on my upcoming EP. Their production is always a great mix of carefree fun pop and something new.
What is the meaning behind this song?
My new song “Gone” is about being hung up on an ex but also realizing their past intentions, and moving on. While writing “Gone” it had originally been a sad piano ballad. I had wanted to breathe new life into it so I sent it off to my producer Musa, and now I love how the production is so upbeat.
Beyond your cover of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” how does “Gone” mark a new step in your career, being your first release since 2022?
I’ve had the privilege of being featured on other artists’ tracks while also writing those tracks as well. From my previous original music, Gone is a continuation of everything I’ve made thus far. I’m expanding as an artist but also keeping things light. For these next few songs, I don’t want to release anything too heavy. I want my music to always allow people to feel confident and secure.
Speaking of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” what was it like to cover such a timeless classic?
VeeAlwaysHere and I decided to do a Christmas cover for just a quick Instagram reel in 2022, and both ended up loving it so much that we decided to finish it. I love Judy Garland’s version so much and it was an honor to be able to sing it.
In our interview with you in 2022, you hinted at a debut EP. Can we expect it to arrive this year?
Yes! My EP is coming this 2024. It’s a collection of songs that are a celebration of self. I can’t wait for this music to be the place that people can hopefully go to when they want to feel powerful.
Lastly, what’s next for Maria Ellis?
I’m most looking forward to releasing my EP this year. My next single is coming in March and it’s my favorite song I’ve ever made. I couldn’t be more thankful to the people that listen to me, and I’m so excited to give them my favorite songs I’ve ever done to date.
You can listen to Maria Ellis‘ new single “Gone” on our Spotify playlist!
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