Ela Ozturk is healing
We all experience heartbreak. Some more often than others, however, once we find that song which perfectly conveys the emotions that we feel, we begin to heal. Talking to Ela Ozturk on her latest release she speaks about creating a song that people can find comfort in.
“Healing is about continuously returning to love that no longer serves you, and getting to terms with the fact that you can’t heal in places you get hurt in, it's about choosing to finally let go even though it’s painful because in the end you know it’s more painful to stay.” Ela Ozturk shares her thoughts on her latest single via her official artist website.
Ela Ozturk is a Turkish-American singer and songwriter. She found her love for music at the age of six years old. Her strong vocal performance in her songs is accreted to her influences such as Etta James, Aretha Franklin, and Adele.
Growing up in the Bay Area and having her Turkish background Ela was exposed to a variety of different artists and genres which influenced her musically. She has a unique blend of Blues, Jazz and RnB which can be heard within her music.
Currently, as things stand Ela Ozturk is one of the artists to watch this year. She brings a much-needed soulful touch to the world of RnB music which is currently over-saturated with mainstream pop influences.
For more on Ela and her latest single read our interview below:
The following interview has been lightly edited for context and clarity
Daniel Young: What inspired the song healing ?
Ela Ozturk: Great Question! My song “Healing” is actually centered on a love that no longer exists, it’s also about continuously returning to a love that no longer serves you, and getting to terms with the fact that you can’t heal in the places you get hurt in. Ultimately It’s about choosing to finally let go even though it's painful because in the end, you know it’s more painful to stay.
How was the process of making this song ?
“Healing” was written in 2021 and recorded in 2021 and 2022, the song took alot of time to finalize as there were many changes made throughout the process. I recorded this song in Los Angeles in my producer’s home studio and it was released in March of 2023.
Was there anything difficult that you experienced while writing the song ?
Yes, the song was definitely difficult to write. “Healing” was written over the course of a couple of months. The song is quite lyrically heavy and trying to capture the story I wanted to tell was challenging to do.
How would you describe yourself as a person ?
I like this question! I would describe myself as creative, kind, and hardworking.
What is your most favourite song that you made this far ?
That’s such a hard question for me to answer as a songwriter because my songs are like my babies haha, but I would have to say that my favorite song that I have made so far would have to be “Roots” just because the song is so personal to me, and helped give me closure from a situation that I needed to move on from.
Do you have any fears as an artist ?
Of course! It’s so scary putting your heart on the line and for the world to consume. My music is based on my own experiences, heartbreaks, fears, and inner thoughts. To have people around the world that I’ve never met, know the most vulnerable parts of myself is definitely not something you can prepare for, but as an artist I know the best art comes from that part of myself that I keep hidden from the world and tucked away only to tap into that part of myself when I’m creating. The best art isn’t censored and you have to show up as you are when you are in the creative process.
What is one thing that you would tell your younger self ?
One thing I would tell my younger self would be to keep on the path you are on, don’t worry so much, and that you’re enough as you are.
What is something you would tell your fans ?
Something I want to tell my fans is that I’m so grateful for all the love and support you all have shown me over the past few years! Thank you for letting my music into your lives and for joining me on this journey together!
