Denver-based singer-songwriter Holly Lovell weaves stories that resonate with raw vulnerability, crafting songs that strike a chord through intimate lyrics and soulful melodies. Her style, rooted in alternative folk, pulls from both acoustic and electric guitar to create an atmosphere of aching honesty. Lovell’s sound channels the lyrical depth of artists like Patty Griffin, Brandi Carlile, and Bruce Springsteen, yet her voice is distinctly her own, with The Denver Post likening her to Maggie Rogers and Ingrid Michaelson—“but with far more gumption.” For Lovell, music isn’t just performance; it’s deeply personal storytelling, as she shares pieces of herself in each song.
Lovell’s upcoming release, Hello Chelsea, is a concept record steeped in loss, reflecting her experience of grieving a family member’s battle with drug addiction. Recorded with producer Brian Joseph, known for his work with Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens, the album took shape in the tranquil woods of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, an ideal setting to explore such tender, personal themes. Lovell has built an impressive career, opening for artists like The Fray, Phillip Phillips, and Katie Herzig, and taking the stage at festivals such as the Cayamo Music Cruise and Denver’s Underground Music Showcase. Her dedication to honing her craft is evident in every performance and recording, making her music resonate deeply with her audience.
Her latest single, “Lion’s Den,” is a poignant indie folk ballad that delves into the complexities of addiction from a compassionate perspective. This track, the second single from Hello Chelsea, serves as a cathartic exploration of the loss of her uncle to addiction, a tragedy that continues to shape her life and music. Lovell sees the song as a tool for empathy, a way to move through her grief and foster understanding. “This song built my empathy and helped me move forward in my grief,” she shares, expressing the transformative nature of her songwriting process. Lovell’s younger brother, Caleb Lovell, joins her on the track, playing drums. The sibling duo has been making music together since childhood, and this collaboration adds a layer of familial warmth to the song, underscoring the deeply personal nature of her music.
Set to release on February 7, 2025, Hello Chelsea promises to be an album that doesn’t shy away from hard truths. With her knack for storytelling and perceptive songwriting, Holly Lovell offers a rare blend of vulnerability and strength, making her music an emotional journey that listeners are sure to feel and remember.
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