by alex grainger
photo courtesy of katie belle
Katie Belle just dropped her latest single “Next Ex.” This relatable pop anthem is all about never settling, to reinforce the idea to only keep those in your life that “set your soul on fire.” “Next Ex” came into Katie’s life at the perfect time not only aiding in her personal healing process but also allowing her to showcase her pop sound and grow her dynamic discography. Read more about “Next Ex” and Katie Belle below!
Can you tell us what “Next Ex” is about?
Katie: “‘Next Ex’ is kind of about playing the field and realizing the current situation is about to expire. Just realizing the person you've been spending time with isn't it, and it's time to keep it moving.”
What was the creative process behind “Next Ex?”
Katie: “‘Next Ex’ was written by a great team of writers (Fabio Campedelli, Sarah de Warren, and Myylo). It was originally pitched to me back in the spring and when I heard it I loved it. It felt like that was exactly what was about to happen in my relationship at the time and it ended up being true! The release of this song has honestly been such a big part in my healing process, which is really special.”
What message are you sending to the listeners of “Next Ex?”
Katie: “Hopefully the confidence to not settle. You owe it to yourself to cut someone off or not waste time on something that isn't serving you. Life is short, we aren’t young forever, you deserve to only surround yourself with people who set your soul on fire.”
You mentioned how the single is about a one sided relationship. Do you think “Next Ex” has taught you how to approach these relationships differently?
Katie: “Yes, absolutely. I've honestly learned so much from all of my ex's. Every relationship I've ever been in has taught me something and helped me grow in some way. It’s bitter sweet and I guess the cycle will continue, until ultimately I meet that person that will never be an ex. (:”
How would you describe your sound? How has it developed since American Idol to now “Next Ex?”
Katie: “My sound is definitely pop based, but I like to venture out into all the veins of music. As a fan of music I'm inspired by it all, as my discography grows I think my listeners will be able to hear that.
My sound has developed into a more core pop vein since American Idol. I had released one or two singles right before I went on the show and that music was a little darker, had some dance elements in it. Now i think my sound is a lot brighter and sunny, still has the dance elements but in a more Katy Perry way than Mothica.”
Do you have a favorite lyric in “Next Ex” that you feel is especially powerful or meaningful?
Katie: “I personally love the line ‘I'm never gonna call you back.’ The way we set it up sonically makes that line stand out to begin with. And as someone who has been so guilty of running back to someone who has hurt me (more than once), I love the lyric itself because there's so much freedom and power in finally being done. And literally never calling them back.
How do you feel this single has contributed to your growth as a musician?
Katie: “I think this song is such a fun addition to my library, especially since it’s played such a powerful role in my personal life. ‘Next Ex’ is another step forward in finding my place in this industry and another building block to my career and sound.”
What's next for you?
Katie: “I will be on tour in [this month]! I'm super excited, we'll be going up north to Pittsburgh, Brooklyn, Boston, down to Nashville, Atlanta, and all the way over to LA! All of the dates and details are on my website!! I can't wait to see you guys out there.”