As Estelle approaches the 20th anniversary of her groundbreaking debut album, The 18th Day, she reflects on how the years have shaped her artistry, purpose, and musical vision.
In a conversation with WBLS, the singer-songwriter shared insights into her journey from her first album to her upcoming projects, the evolution of her sound, and how intentionality has become the heart of her music. “Back then, I was confident,” she says, “but it was more of a boldness that came without deep reasoning. Now, I’m confident with purpose and understanding, and that’s everything to me.”
Since The 18th Day first introduced listeners to her unique blend of hip-hop, soul, and reggae, Estelle has been an artist who defies genres, never boxed into a single category. Songs like the Grammy-winning “American Boy” showcased her versatility, mixing styles and winning fans globally. Today, Estelle remains committed to making music without boundaries, a trait she proudly attributes to her early days in the UK’s independent music scene. “I started independently, and I’m independent now. It’s given me a freedom that lets me create music on my terms, and I think fans feel that honesty,” she explains.
Estelle has taken a reflective approach to her career over the past few years. She shared how her approach to songwriting has deepened, evolving beyond simple hooks and beats to a more intentional, spiritual practice. “Now, when I release albums, it’s from a place of purpose. I have something to actually give the world,” she says. Her upcoming sixth studio album encapsulates this shift, drawing from personal and artistic growth, with songs that encourage dancing, joy, and self-discovery.
New Music with Renewed Purpose and Personal Growth for Estelle
Her latest singles, “Oh I” and “Fire,” mark what she describes as a “reintroduction.” Estelle explains, “’Oh I’ is my way of telling people where I’ve been, what’s been going on in my life. It’s a reintroduction of sorts.” She believes that every track is an authentic piece of herself, reflecting years of renewal and rediscovery. “I always put my life in my music. There’s nothing you’re going to find in my songs that isn’t a part of me,” she says. “It’s joyful, danceable, and I’m just here to have a good time—and bring others along with me.”
Estelle’s personal growth has also impacted her perspective on love and relationships, which she explores in her music. For instance, “Fire” reflects her renewed outlook on romantic connections. “I’m not just looking for anyone to drift in and out of my life,” she shares with a laugh. “I want someone who’s equally on fire, intentional, and grounded. That’s where I’m at in my life.”
Estelle speaks openly about the challenges that come with navigating the music industry as a fiercely independent artist. Reflecting on the experiences of other artists, she notes, “There are so many people in this industry who want to be the star instead of helping the star.” She’s seen firsthand how young musicians are often pressured to fit certain molds, something she struggled with early on but ultimately resisted. “When you’re young, people try to box you in. But I’m grateful that my journey was tough. It’s given me the strength and clarity to create what I want.”
Embracing Independence and Collaborative Creativity
Collaborations have been a vital part of Estelle’s music, and her upcoming album is no different. “I wanted voices that really resonate with the sound and feel of each track,” she says. The album features collaborations with artists like Channel Tres, Teedra Moses, and Russell Taylor, each bringing their unique style and texture. Estelle recalls inviting DJ D-Nice to add his influence to a track inspired by one of his iconic Club Quarantine sets. “It was such a unique experience,” she remembers. “He added that extra layer that just brought it all together.”
As Estelle looks back on her career, she reflects on her mission to create music without constraints. She addresses the industry’s tendency to categorize artists by genre, a convention she’s pushed back against throughout her career. “If you’re an artist, you’re going to create what you want,” she says simply. “Genres are boxes that limit creativity. It doesn’t matter if it’s pop, reggae, R&B—if it’s good music, people will connect with it.” For Estelle, who’s journeyed from hip-hop to reggae to pop and beyond, her mission has always been about connecting with fans through sincerity and craft, not labels. “Make great music. That’s it. The rest will fall into place,” she adds.
Two decades after her debut, Estelle continues to offer listeners an honest and soulful exploration of life, love, and artistry. “This journey has been about trust—in myself, in my purpose, and in the people around me,” she says. And for fans eager to see what’s next, Estelle promises that her upcoming album will capture her energy, joy, and passion like never before: “I’m excited to share this side of me, to keep growing, to keep creating. It’s been a beautiful journey, and I feel like I’m just getting started.”