We had a chat with UK electro-pop artist ETAN about her rousing style and expansive debut EP Growing Pains (Anthems For Late Bloomers)
Armed with an expansive electronic pop sound and a bold and uncompromising approach to her sound, London singer-songwriter and producer ETAN is an artist who has been gradually building a following and garnering acclaim and reverence since her emergence as an artist back in 2020.
The expansive and creative nature of her sound is evident on everything that the artist releases, and her new EP Growing Pains (Anthems For Late Bloomers) provides a multi-faceted and engrossing showcase of everything that makes the artist feels so unique and fiercely exciting. The lyrics are relatable and often resonating, the soundscapes feel packed full of charm and distinctive appeal, and the personality and character of the artist shines through every facet of the sound. We had a chat with ETAN to find out some more about this release and her journey as an artist so far.
Who TF is ETAN?
ETAN is a Singer-Songwriter and producer from London, UK.
How long have you been making music?
I started playing piano when I was 5, and signing since I was probably an embryo. So I think I’ve been making music before I wrote my first song, which was at 14. Since then I’ve always found a way to involve music in my life, even when I wasn’t practicing it regularly, and before I decided to make it my profession.
Why do you make music?
It sounds like a cliché, but I don’t think I had any other choice. I was born to a very musical family and was surrounded with it for as long as I remember, it was just part of my life. There was a pivotal point where I felt I must choose this wholeheartedly and invest myself fully to pursue it. In that moment, I felt Music can carry so many emotions without framing them into words. I thought that’s powerful, to have limitless ways to express yourself. And by that you kind of eliminate your limits to communicate with people. People use music as a bridge to communicate with each other as well. It’s for everyone.
What are your biggest influences?
Besides musical influences like Goldfrapp, Robyn, Susanne Sundfør, St Vincent, Kate Bush, Imogen Heap, Bjork, Hot Chip, LCD Sound system, The Eurythmics and more I find live classical concerts really inspiring. I try to see as much art as possible to open my horizons and get out of my comfort zone.
What would you say has been your best moment so far?
My best moment was, by far, releasing my debut EP earlier this year. It’s been a long time coming, and the release process was slow and frustrating because of Covid. It was a big relief to see it out, and clear my desk for new music and projects.
How would you describe your sound to somebody unfamiliar with it?
I’d probably say it’s an uplifting mix of emotional synthpop and classical elements.
What’s your dream “I’ve made it” moment?
Headlining a show in one of my dream venues in London. I’d also really like to write music for a podcast about true crime or UFO series.
We love your latest EP Growing Paints (Anthems for Late Bloomers), what more can you tell us about it?
Thank you so much! I wrote Growing Pains after feeling I am not “catching up”- I’m never where I’m “supposed” to be. I felt that if I haven’t made it yet, I might as well give up now. Giving up on becoming the person I wanted to be, meant giving up on myself entirely, but it seemed like there is only one accepted route and time frame for the chase. I feel this EP is a story of resilience and self acceptance. Learning to focus on your own journey, without letting social norms and the people in your life dictate how you feel about yourself, and if you’ll go after your dreams or not.
What else do you have planned for the near future?
I have special versions of songs from Growing Pains that will be released soon. I also have new music I can’t wait to release later this year.
And finally, who is your biggest fan right now?
My biggest fan is probably my cat. She’s always very happy to see me J
But with all honesty, I’m amazed from the support and love this EP has been getting and every like or share has made me feel like I have so many fans. Maybe I should use that thought to manifest more J
