Chelle releases new single “HAVE TO DO”

Dublin-based Chelle is a rising artist in the modern pop sphere, bringing together the soulful warmth of vintage influences with the energy of contemporary electronic production. Her music dances between eras, drawing on the melodic flair of classic pop while folding in shimmering synths, electronic textures and a lively sense of momentum. It’s a sound that feels equally familiar and new, giving Chelle a musical identity that looks backwards for inspiration while remaining firmly squared in the present.

Motown sits at the centre of that vision, providing an important source of inspiration for Chelle’s approach to melody and emotion. That influence gives her music a soulful framework but it’s only one part of a wider sonic fabric and against those classic stylings, she places modern production and electronic energy, creating songs capable of moving between intimacy and propulsion. Her voice provides the connective tissue, carrying the warmth of her influences while adding the confidence that’s quickly become part of her exciting sound.

Chelle first introduced herself to audiences in September last year with “Kiss Me Again,” a well-received debut single that immediately began attracting attention. Its combination of pop melody and relaxed rhythmic flow offered an early showcase of an artist bringing different eras together without allowing either to dominate. Critics responded strongly to her sound, drawing comparisons to Gwen Stefani and Blondie and placing Chelle firmly among the new artists worth watching. This year she returned with singles two and three while winning over more listeners around the world and securing radio support.

Now, however, Chelle takes another step forward with her brand new single titled “HAVE TO DO,” a noir cinematic pop anthem that takes her sound into darker and more dramatic areas. Recorded at Bluebird Studios with producer Declan Lonergan, “HAVE TO DO” explores the uncomfortable ideas of replacement, emotional detachment and self-worth but by not viewing heartbreak through the familiar lens of rejection, the song turns the perspective around. Its central idea suggests that being replaced doesn’t necessarily mean being diminished and the person who comes next can simply be the available option; a “have to do” as opposed to an choice.

Set up by the bounce of plucked guitar notes and smooth vocalisations, the buzz of synth adds to the anticipation before the snap of drums injects a slick groove. Capped by moody vocal leads spinning intoxicating melodies carrying picture painting lyrics, the track rolls with infectious rhythm and an alluring dark pop aesthetic. Tinged with echoes of Latin vibes, the song flows with instantly catchy hooks and danceable energy packaged in impactful production to craft a potent dose of alternative pop music that’s hypnotic, memorable and thoroughly original from start to finish.

That noir tone of the song gives Chelle space to explore the emotional aftermath of being replaced without falling into conventional heartbreak terrain, resulting in an enticing jam that’s sure to impress new and existing fans alike. For an artist still at the beginning of her journey, Chelle is going from strength to strength while unveiling new sides to her captivating musical offering. “HAVE TO DO” feels like another thrilling step for Chelle and this latest chapter suggests she’s already discovering just how much space her voice can occupy in the modern pop music scene.

Listen to HAVE TO DO below

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