Michellar collaborates with Frankie El 

Based in San Francisco, singer-songwriter Michelle Bond, known artistically as Michellar, has arrived as one of the most prolific and inspiring new voices in modern folk music. Balancing poetic storytelling with a deep social consciousness, Michellar has built a body of work that feels both timeless and unique, channeling the spirit of classic folk songwriting through a contemporary lens. In just a single year, she’s achieved what many artists spend a decade building, with nearly thirty singles, an EP and weekly performances at open mic nights across the Bay Area, her artistic output is astounding.

Songwriting is an entire way of life for Michellar where every musical moment is an extension of her own experience, reflecting a relentless creative drive that’s already seen her pen more than 140 songs. Her artistic journey found a new level of momentum in 2023 when she was accepted into the prestigious de Young Museum Open Call Exhibition. The recognition sparked a surge of confidence and ambition that’s fuelled her prolific creative endeavour ever since. That experience, informed by the spirit of artistic collaboration and community, seems to echo through everything she’s created since, resulting in music that seeks connection, truth and meaning in an increasingly uncertain world.

Drawing from the traditions of folk storytelling, Michellar’s sound carries the lyrical grace and melodic charm of artists such as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and James Taylor. But while she honours those influences, her approach feels thoroughly her own. Her songs balance reflection with a keen awareness of the world around her, often addressing emotional strength, identity and the complex facets of modern society.

Now she brings us her latest release with her brand new single titled “Truth Over Lies,” this time collaborating with vocalist Frankie El. The track is a meaningful call to awareness, offering a song that confronts injustice and challenges listeners to stand up for what’s right. Recorded between California and South Africa, the single reflects a global vision built on musical collaboration with a shared sense of humanity. The project also brought together Michael Levine and Matthias Schmidt, who co-wrote the track with Michellar during a songwriting retreat in Idyllwild, California.

Influenced by the works of U2 and Coldplay, “Truth Over Lies” captures the mood of today’s social and political climate via an anthem for a generation grappling with misinformation, division and the need for truth. Set up by the delicate plucks of guitar, Frankie’s soulful voice rings out to stitch elegant melodies into the atmospheric musical fabric as the intricate taps of percussion brings a subtle energy to the song. Building with warm bass notes and percussive march, the track expands to form a dazzling pop rock soundscape brimming with blissful melodies and heartfelt lyricism.

Full of memorable melodic writing and engrossing instrumentation led by spectacular vocal performance, “Truth Over Lies” delivers another sensational piece of Michellar’s stunning musical vision. Once again crafting an effecting musical moment, with “Truth Over Lies,” Michellar delivers a moving sound that’s sure to win over new and existing fans alike.

Listen to Truth Over Lies (feat. Frankie El) below

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