Spotlight: Elyse Aeryn on Songwriting, Growth, and Finding Her Voice

There is something quietly powerful about the way Elyse Aeryn writes and performs, blending classic rock grit with a modern edge that feels both grounded and fearless. In this conversation, we sit down for Spotlight: Elyse Aeryn to talk about her creative process, the stories behind her latest music, and how life on the road continues to shape her sound. From songwriting roots to the moments that test and define an artist, this interview leans into the heart of who she is rather than just the headlines.

Since the last time we spoke, your life and career have taken a profound turn. How did the experience of being forced to pause reshape your relationship with this album?

I was thinking about that! Much of my inspiration comes from living on the edge as I sing in track 5. I am always chasing the excitement and the thrill of life. Being forced to hit pause felt like a bit of an identity crisis at times. However, upon reflection of the album and its themes, I truly saw how living life to the fullest extent has its risks, whether that’s with music, love, or motorcycles.

You’ve spoken openly about romanticizing mortality during the writing process and how that ultimately inspired the album’s title. When did that idea first surface, and how did it guide the emotional tone of the record?

The full title was originally ‘Everybody Loves You When You’re Dead’. I shortened it because I didn’t want to be misunderstood, especially by young listeners. Years ago, I read a book with a very similar title, and it stuck with me. Something told me I would one day make an album with this title. I often ask myself what it takes to be remembered for your work and what made the musical greats so iconic. Was losing them so young part of their impact? Either way for me, it’s too late for the 27 Club, but I believe it’s never too late to leave your mark, and none of us know what or when that will be. We’ve just gotta live out our most authentic lives while we can. The inevitable end served as permission to create my most honest work yet.

After your motorcycle accident, these songs took on new meaning. What emotions surfaced when you returned to the music after such a life-altering Moment?

It felt like I had written about my destiny in a way. Hearing some of those lyrics after the accident was chilling. But the outpouring of listeners telling me what my music and my musical journey meant to them was affirmation that following my heart and speaking my truth is connecting with people and that’s all I’ve ever wanted from this.

Everybody Loves You… feels bold, soulful, and unafraid — yet also deeply reflective. How did you balance strength and vulnerability while bringing this project to life?

I appreciate your choice of words. I’ve learned that vulnerability is a strength. I used to think strength meant not showing my emotions, but when it comes to music, I crave it from an artist, and I felt this record deserved to have me show up that way. Every song from this project is a personal experience. I enjoy finding a way to express my sadness or anger with a side note of confidence and power. Sometimes I dip my toes in like with “Your Saturday Night” where I’m craving someone’s time, but the lyrics and production make it feel a little sassy. Then I’ll go all the way with a song like “Cry” where I beg for emotion, but the strength in the vocals say I’m in control.

Drawing inspiration from iconic female rock trailblazers, what qualities from those artists were most important for you to channel in this era?

When I think of these women, I think of confidence in their own unique sound despite the trends, timeless yet trailblazing, commitment to their craft, and a style that couldn’t be boxed in.

This album blends roots-rock grit with pop sensibility in a way that feels timeless rather than trend-driven. How intentional was that approach while writing and producing the record?

It was intentional for the sake of protecting my vision because that vibe is what comes naturally to me, and I have always strived for timelessness in my work. I never intended for my songs to be for everyone, but they are deeply meant for a special group of someones.

Experiencing a brush with mortality often reframes what matters. How has that moment changed the way you think about legacy, impact, and what you still want to say through music?

Connection through music is the ultimate goal, and I didn’t realize the extent to which I had been connecting up to this point. I believe my legacy needs more time, and I’m not meant to know what, when, or how any of it will leave an impact. I’m just meant to live as my truest self.

You’ve already achieved major milestones — awards, recognition, and national exposure — yet this album suggests there’s still more to come. What feels unfinished for you creatively right now?

Up to this point, my music has been almost all solo-written. I would love to make an album with an experienced, creative collaborator from writing through production to experience what that person could pull out of me artistically. I also want to perform a full-band tour across Canada and the US. There are some legendary venues and festivals I dream of playing.

The title Everybody Loves You… carries a sense of irony, honesty, and confrontation. What conversations do you hope this album opens up for listeners?

For anyone really paying attention, they will find the full title of the album hidden within the artwork on the vinyl and CD jacket. The shortened title leaves an open-ended version of this and might require a little more listening to fully get it. I hope that in either form it opens conversations about how we choose to live our lives. If everybody loves you when you’re dead, why not live your truth starting right now? Because your truth is where the magic and the impact live.

Returning to promote this record now, with added perspective and gratitude, how does stepping back into the spotlight feel different than it did before the Pause?

Connection and expression have always been my “why” but now I filter each moment through that lens. My story of resilience now runs deeper than ever and I hope that when people see and hear me, they feel inspired, empowered, and alive.

As you prepare for in-person interviews and live moments around this release, what part of this album are you most excited — or most nervous — to finally share?

I can’t help but be a bit nervous about revealing the true stories behind some of these songs. Vague lyrics can protect the truth, but this time, I tore down the walls with my honest songwriting.

If someone listens to Everybody Loves You… from start to finish, what do you hope stays with them long after the final note fades?

A sense of empowerment – to speak their truth, take risks, forgive themselves, and to fully live. This record romanticizes death, but it’s really about living. Also: rock and roll is alive and well!

At its core, Spotlight: Elyse Aeryn is about connection, growth, and the music that keeps pulling her forward.

Check out Everybody Loves You right now!

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