Last year before I got serious about starting a music blog my husband began sending me songs to listen to, encouraging me to run with the idea and begin my journey in writing about the music I love. One of the first songs he told me to check out was “Ocean Eyes” by 15-year-old Billie Eilish. The first word that came to my mind whilst listening to the song was siren. I am not talking about the loud obnoxious horns on police cars or firetrucks. I am talking about the mythological creature whose beautiful voice leads sailors to their imminent death. I could not imagine what a siren’s voice sounded like until I heard Eilish. Her voice is as haunting as it is beautiful, and I am still in shock that it comes from a, now, 16-year-old.
A few days ago Eilish was brought to my attention again while I was listening to James Bay’s Spotify playlist. Rapper Vince Staples joins Eilish for “&burn,” the last track on her EP titled dont smile at me that was released August 2017. The production of this song about unrequited love is incredible. The sounds (especially the hi-hat) created through the drum machine have a hypnotic appeal that pairs perfectly with Eilish’s enthralling voice that will leave you utterly captivated. Give these songs or her entire EP a listen. You do not want to miss out on this talent.