Elle's unique voice and emotional approach to songwriting to reach more people than ever before.
Listen here: Never Even Met Her' Single
Your new EP, Never Even Met Her, feels incredibly personal. Can you walk us through the moment or realization that sparked the idea for the project?
The spark for this project came after I learned that my ex was spreading false stories about me. I realized that the version of me he created was so far from the truth. It was like I had never even met that person. Instead of letting this upset me, I turned the experience into something empowering. Surrendering and letting go of controlling what everyone thought or heard about me allowed me to reclaim my narrative and own who I am without having to prove myself to anyone. The whole project embodies this idea of self-assuredness and confidence, becoming the foundation for the entire EP.
The title track stems from a powerful message of reclaiming your identity after betrayal. What was the writing process like for that song, emotionally and creatively?
Writing Never Even Met Her felt so special and, honestly, liberating. I worked with The Orphanage and my co-write, Olivia Kiene, and we focused on turning a painful experience into a song of strength and resilience. The music is unapologetic and sassy, while also reflecting real emotions. Writing it helped me find peace and reminded me that I don’t have to carry the weight of someone else’s lies.
What made this continued collaboration special, and how did it shape the sound of this new chapter?
Working again with The Orphanage felt like such a homecoming, but also a new era and chapter. The Orphanage produced my debut “Yeah, No” EP, and they genuinely understand my voice and push me to be as authentic as possible. They create such a great environment that encourages me to explore new sounds while also staying true to who I am. This collaboration gave the EP a cohesive yet fresh sound, a blend of vulnerability and boldness that reflects where I am as an artist right now.
How has your approach to vulnerability in songwriting evolved?
After many years in the industry, I’ve seen how vulnerability has allowed me to connect with people around the world. Every session, I push myself to be as honest and open as possible in my writing because it not only helps me create work that I am most proud of, but also allows me to feel a unique sense of community and solidarity with my listeners. I love listening to some of my favorite artists because they make me feel seen, and I strive to do that through my music. Over time, I’ve grown more comfortable embracing vulnerability. Although it can be tough in a day and age where we feel compelled to present highlight reels and our most perfect selves, if we want meaningful connections, it is so worth it.
In your single “Help,” you touched on the pressures of growing up in the spotlight. How have those experiences shaped your perspective as both a woman and an artist today?
Getting my start in the entertainment industry at a young age, I put a lot of pressure on myself to appear perfect and handle everything on my own. It took me a while to realize that it’s okay, even powerful, to ask for support and show my true self. “Help” was my way of sharing that journey and encouraging others to embrace their vulnerability too, and in turn their strength.
From Radio Disney’s “Next Big Thing” to sold-out shows and viral streaming success, how do you balance the expectations that come with early fame while still evolving authentically?
I’ve learned to trust my instincts and focus on my path and growth. I feel most proud of my music and myself when I create art that is true to who I am. If I can continue to do that and hopefully help others feel seen and less alone through my music, then I feel very fulfilled.
Never Even Met Her is such a confident, cathartic project. What do you hope listeners feel or walk away with after hearing it?
I hope people listen to this song and feel a lot of strength and support, knowing they are in control of their narrative and other people’s actions or words will not define them. The project is about confidence, resilience, and finding humor even in challenging situations. If someone walks away feeling a little stronger, a little braver, and maybe with a smile on their face, then I’ve done what I set out to do.
You’ve also studied at the University of Pennsylvania—how did you manage the dual worlds of academia and being a full-time recording artist?
I’ve found that both worlds feed into each other in amazing ways. My studies challenge me intellectually and creatively, and those experiences enrich my songwriting. I worked on my music video for Never Even Met Her with my cinema studies professor and incredible screenwriter, Scott Burkhardt.
Touring with Chloe x Halle and performing on huge stages like Jingle Ball must have been incredible. How have live performances shaped your connection with fans?
I love performing live. There is nothing like witnessing firsthand how music serves as a powerful means of connection and uplift. Seeing fans sing along to my songs and connect with my music is what I love about doing this. Live shows create a unique bond that goes beyond the music itself.
Looking beyond the EP release—what’s next for Elle Winter, both musically and personally? Any dream collaborations or future goals on the horizon?
I’m excited to continue to release more songs from my upcoming EP and to keep writing songs and making new music that is honest and pushes boundaries. I will be announcing some tour dates and exciting opportunities soon. There’s a lot on the horizon, and I’m ready for it!
