Ivy Adara Is Pop’s Brightest New Voice

Ivy Adara is stepping out on her own and it's clear she's one of pop's brightest up-and-comers. She just released her EP and already the shimmering songs have been stuck in my head. We talked to her about her EP and being vulnerable.

How did you get started in music?

Ivy: Honestly it all stems back to when I was 7 & I roped my brother into writing my first (and really terrible) song. Once I started, I just never stopped.. I kept writing on my own, in my bedroom, geeking out over word play instead of boys, or whatever everyone else was into at the time, and here we are.

What made you gravitate to pop?

Ivy: I grew up listening to a lot of pop music so for me it felt the most natural.

 You’ve written for a ton of artists, how do you differentiate your writing style from other artists?

Ivy: I think no matter who wrote the song, the artist that ends up singing it, is going to make it their own and personal to them. Also though, at the end of the day everything I write comes from who I am, and my world, so it’s always going to have a bit of me in it.

 Tell me about your debut EP Intraduction, what’s the story behind it?

Ivy: This EP is all about creating a youthful state of mind through capturing my journey and my own youthful state of mind. It’s my introduction as an artist and my way of taking us back to the introduction of life itself where we were the most free. Most importantly, the word “Intra” means on the inside or within, I wanted people to know that this EP is raw, personal and real. 

What has been inspiring you lately?

Ivy: I’m usually inspired most by hearing new music that is lyrically interesting, but lately Jonny Cash is who I’ve been listening to - so it’s an antique inspiring me at the moment!

What has been one of the biggest challenges for you as an artist?

Ivy: Being vulnerable to me is one of scary things we could ever be.. My mum always said “be yourself no matter what” which sounded ridiculous as a child because .. who else was I going to be? But then I grew up and realized how hard it can be to wear my heart on my sleeve.

What’s your best piece of advice for young women?

Ivy: Don’t be afraid.

Follow Ivy on Twitter and Instagram and listen to her new EP now.