Toronto’s music scene is known for its diverse and evolving sound, but one artist is making waves by blending genres and telling it like it is. Meet Ekelle, a fierce, independent artist from Toronto, whose unique sound—what she calls Hood Pop—combines the best elements of hip-hop, R&B, and pop music with an edge.
Ekelle’s Rise in the Music Industry
Ekelle’s journey as an artist and songwriter began without a formal music background, yet her authenticity and raw talent have made her a standout in the Canadian music scene. Known for her fearless lyrics, Ekelle rhymes about real-life experiences, drawing inspiration from topics like money, relationships, and identity.
Her distinct style of Hood Pop reflects her own lived experiences, blending edgy, bold lyrics with catchy melodies. Artists like Missy Elliot, Doja Cat, Drake, Eminem, and Nicki Minaj have influenced her sound, but it’s her perspective and vision that make her music unforgettable.
“I make bad bitch music from my perspective and lived experience. Hood feminism, if you will,” says Ekelle, describing her eclectic and adventurous sound. Whether she’s delivering a fierce rap or a soulful ballad, her music is built to empower listeners and speak to their real, lived emotions.
Collaborating to Amplify Her Voice
Ekelle’s collaborations with other artists and producers are integral to her music-making process. “I like to collaborate with artists whose sound works well with mine and who are big-picture thinkers,” she explains. These partnerships are about more than just creating a song; they’re about envisioning the full experience—from the music to the visuals and fan engagement.
Most of her collaborations come from networking, both online and in person, making sure the artists she works with align with her vision. One notable collaboration is her recent track “Games” featuring Ervin Mitchell, which tackles modern dating culture and the complexities of relationships in today’s swipe-right world.
Ekelle’s Empowerment Message Through Music
For Ekelle, music is not just a career; it’s a form of personal expression and empowerment. “I want listeners to know that they can have the life they want despite anything they’ve been through,” she shares. Her music speaks to perseverance, honesty, and empowerment—values she hopes her audience will carry with them.
Her message is clear: keep pushing forward, stay true to yourself, and don’t be afraid to take a break and play hard. She also adds a personal touch to her work, encouraging listeners to embrace their individuality while recognizing that it’s okay to have fun and let loose.
What’s Next for Ekelle?
Looking ahead, Ekelle is focused on her future as she works toward releasing her third studio album in 2025. While she aims to make a lasting impact on the Canadian music scene, she also dreams of taking her sound to an international stage. She’s eyeing prestigious awards like the Junos and Grammys, and plans to perform for audiences worldwide.
Stay connected with Ekelle as she continues to break barriers and elevate her sound. You can catch up with her latest updates and music releases on Spotify and follow her on Instagram at @officialekelle.
