Check out our interview with country pop singer/ songwriter Ella Hart who just released her new single “The Story You Tell Yourself.”
Follow Ella @ellaharttmusic
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Hi Ella, please tell us a little about you?
Hi! I’m Canadian Country-Pop artist, Ella Hartt! I’ve always loved music – singing it, writing it, playing it and dancing to it. I sang my first country song at two years old and have continued to express myself through music ever since. Growing up in Alberta, I’ve always loved listening to country and pop! Some of my biggest influences have been Shania Twain, Kelsea Ballerini, Taylor Swift and Randy Travis. My goal is to connect with other people and brighten their day with the music I create!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Positive, Fun, and Joyful!
We’re sure you have been asked this a million times but how did you get in the industry?
After years of writing songs, taking singing lessons and guitar lessons on and off, I finally decided to record one of the songs I wrote with my mom – my first single, “Where is that guy?” From there, I began performing more regularly and headlined my first show. I started co-writing with other people, attending conferences and industry events, and have loved it!
How has this changed your life?
Choosing to do music took me on another path in life. It has allowed me to meet and collaborate with incredible and talented people. It has shown me that you can do anything you put your mind to. While it is an unconventional job, I have learned a variety of valuable skills including marketing, public speaking and performing, as well as entrepreneurship.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Sweet, Upbeat, and Happy!
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
I come from a musical family – my mom is a songwriter and was an adult contemporary Artist when she was my age. As a young child my mom put out a country children’s album that I loved listening to. Growing up my mom and I enjoyed writing songs together. Even though I went to University and pursued other passions, music still remained a passion of mine. After thinking about it for a while, I chose to record my first single in the summer of 2017. It involved taking a courageous leap to pursue music not just as a hobby and passion, but as an artist and business woman. I’ve always believed its important to step out and try new things – you never know where it will lead you to down the road!
Do you play any instrument?
Yes! I play guitar and have been working on re-learning piano!
Do you ever get nervous?
I think everybody does! I actually have a routine I do before live shows. I use positive affirmations to put myself in my performance headspace!
Tell us about your new single “The Story You Tell Yourself?”
“The Story You Tell Yourself” is an upbeat song with an uplifting message reminding others to believe the best about themselves! This song was written and produced entirely remotely during the pandemic. I even sang the lyrics at home in my pajamas!
What’s the story behind the song?
I wrote “The Story You Tell Yourself” with my good friend and co-writer Alex Hughes. During the pandemic we were talking about the impact social media can have on our feelings of self worth. We wanted to write a song that would remind people listening that, “No matter how you’re feeling, you’re enough”.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
It’s the best feeling when other people love the music you write and have a genuine connection to it! Hearing “I love this song”, “This is my song!”, or “I listen to your song every day” is music to my ears!
What book should every entrepreneur read?
That’s a tough one. There are so many great books! I do think Atomic Habits is a book everyone can benefit from… Especially if you’re working towards specific goals!
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
When you’re tired, take a break. Then, keep going and work hard! I love working on myself and my music. I consider it a business and work at building my knowledge of the industry, writing new music, and developing relationships with others. Balancing this with my personal social life and other to do’s can seem like a challenge at times. In those moments, I have to remember to slow down, take a break, so I can come back refreshed.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Practice even when you don’t want to, work hard and embrace opportunities when they come. Growing up I enjoyed a variety of activities – dance, sports, music and church events. I was very social and often willing to try new activities. I would encourage my younger self to continue to make good decisions and step into even more good opportunities. I’d also remind myself to practice guitar and piano more because I now realize the impact of years of practice on performance.
How would your best friend describe you?
Bubbly, kind, charismatic, and generous. I’m not going to lie, I asked 🙂
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
I think I would title my book, “The Story You Tell Yourself”. I’d want to go more in-depth with the ideas brought up in the song and share my own experiences related to them! My favourite books are self growth and non-fiction books, so I’d want my own to be the same!
What’s next for Ella Hartt in 2022?
My music video for “The Story You Tell Yourself” just came out and is available to watch on my Youtube channel! I’m heading to the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMAs) in Calgary, AB! I am continuing to write new music and plan to get back to performing live!
What is your favorite healthy food?
I’m a steak and potatoes kinda girl! I also love smoothies – why not get all the nutrients at once?
And your favorite cheat food?
Hmmm… I love candy! All candy. Fuzzy peaches, swedish berries, you name it.
How would you explain your fashion style?
I’d define it as fun, feminine and classic. I like to dress up, but also be comfortable and casual when my activities call for it. To put things in perspective, even my sweatpants have hearts on them!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being content with what you have, the people you’re surrounded by and the life you live.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to meet Reese Witherspoon! She is talented, innovative and I feel like she would be fun to hang out with! Every time I’m in Nashville I make sure to go to her store, Draper James and have a sweet tea! Over the years, I’ve enjoyed watching her in films and more recently in her tv series on Netflix, “Shine on with Reese” highlighting inspiring women and their journeys. She herself is inspiring!
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
I would love to explore Spain with my family, friends and boyfriend – It’s always been on my list of places to go!
Best advice ever given?
If you never ask, the answer is always no. I’m not sure where I first heard this, but it has definitely encouraged me to live boldly and seek out opportunities.
Do you support any charity?
Giving back has always been important to me. Throughout the years I have supported a variety of charities, one of my favourites being Make A Wish. I currently support a local homeless shelter and volunteer at events when I can.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
In 5 years from now, I see myself writing songs for myself and other artists, with multiple cuts and credits in tv shows and movies! I hope to be married with a family too.
Favorite song? Why?
There are so many incredible songs! It’s hard to pick just one. One of my absolute favourites is My Wish! I love the lyrics and the sentiment of the song. Every time I hear it, it reminds me of my Mom! After singing a live duet at karaoke years ago, it became our special mother/ daughter song!
What do you think of Social Media?
Social media has proven to have both negative and positive impacts on people across our world. Specifically in my own life, it’s given me an avenue to celebrate my successes, share new music and connect with other artists, writers and listeners across the world!
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok @ellaharttmusic
Book: Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Quote: If you never ask, the answer is always no.
Movie: I love “Brooklyn” and “27 dresses”!
Tv Series: I’m always up for watching Golden Girls!
Favorite Food: Steak
Travel Destination: Hawaii!
Sports Team: I’m not sure if I could pick a favourite…
