London-based artist Bella Gate has spent over a decade sculpting her sonic vision before stepping out as a powerful voice in the modern music scene. Writing for 14 years and recording since 2019, Bella’s journey has taken her across Europe, with performances in London, Barcelona and Edinburgh. Inspired by artists such as David Bowie, Amy Winehouse, Birdy and Adele, her music blends emotive writing with intricate arrangements.
Unveiling her sound in 2022 with her debut single “Self Erosion,” she followed up with a string of well-received singles in the build up to her debut full-length record, Gateway, which arrived last September and was mastered by Geoff Pesche at Abbey Road Studios. Capturing the attention of Wonderland, Earmilk and Notion, who’ve all highlighted her musical output, Bella has staked her claim as a must watch artist to watch, delivering music that’s struck a chord with listeners around the world.
Now, Bella offers a new take on one of her previous singles with the release of “Drink With Me (Live).” This live rendition takes the vulnerable emotion of the original and amplifies its moving impact, creating an intimate sonic experience via an elegant studio performance. The live version blends personal struggle with hope, a theme central to Bella’s music. “I wrote the song when I was 15,” she reflects. “On one level, it’s about underage drinking and falling in love. On another, it’s about being together—finding community in a partnership, friendship, or family.”
Her live version of the song pairs jazz influences with chromatic progressions and intricate riffs, mirroring the twists and turns of its reflective lyricism. The addition of a string quartet brings a tender quality to the track with the arrangement crafted by Latin Grammy Award-winning engineer Alberto Pérez alongside Juanjo Fernandez.
The song’s journey began in Barcelona, where Bella spent a transformative year from September 2022 to July 2023 and now with the release of this version she takes listeners back to the composition’s origins, casting an enchanting sonic spell that’s dazzling and truly beautiful. First released as a single in June 2024 and later included on Gateway, the track captures fragments of her soul through its heartfelt melody and poignant songwriting. The live version, she says, wraps up everything she’s worked toward, offering listeners a glimpse into the depth of her artistry.
Brought in by graceful piano flutters, Bella’s stunning vocals glide above as the delicate string textures and smooth bass notes wrap around her alluring voice while the hushed taps of percussion add a gentle lilting rhythmic sway. Framing her timeless songwriting in a stellar performance, her musical talents shine on this exquisite live recording which is sure to charm fans both new and old.
Listen to Drink With Me (Live) below
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