Celeste’s 2019 track captures a feeling many know well. It’s that sense of daily repetition, mixed with a deep longing for something more. This artist has a special way of turning complex emotions into beautiful, relatable music.
Born in Los Angeles, Celeste spent her formative years in West London. Her unique sound draws from a rich tapestry of influences. By age 18, she was already exploring a wide range of artists, from The Clash to Ray Charles, before finding her own powerful voice.
Her vocal style is often compared to soul legends. The raw emotion and controlled quivers in her delivery evoke greats like Etta James and Amy Winehouse. This authenticity is what makes her work so compelling.
This piece explores the layers within that specific 2019 release. We’ll look at the creative journey and the universal themes that give it such lasting power. It’s a standout example of modern soul that continues to connect with listeners.
Key Takeaways
- Celeste’s track from 2019 explores themes of monotony and the desire for change.
- Her powerful and authentic vocal delivery is a hallmark of her soulful sound.
- The artist’s background, split between LA and London, influenced her musical development.
- She began her musical journey by covering a diverse range of artists before writing originals.
- The emotional depth of the music resonates with a wide audience.
- It remains a significant piece in her growing catalog of work.
Insight into Celeste’s Soulful Journey
Celeste’s path to becoming a celebrated vocalist began with humble origins and a passion for authentic expression. Her musical development unfolded gradually over several years, shaped by diverse experiences and influences.
Celeste’s Early Beginnings in Music
At just 16, she started writing songs, taking her craft seriously two years later. She began posting rough tracks on SoundCloud, which opened doors in London’s music scene. This period served as a valuable learning curve.
Her career started taking shape around 2014 when she provided backing vocals for established artists. By 2017, she released her first EP through Lily Allen’s record label. These early experiences built a solid foundation for her solo work.
Influences from Brighton, LA, and Beyond
Growing up in Brighton gave Celeste a sense of freedom that shaped her artistic approach. She never felt pressured to conform, allowing her authentic style to develop naturally. This environment encouraged creative experimentation.
Her eclectic taste in music spans from Edith Piaf to Kendrick Lamar. This diverse listening habit enriched her musical vocabulary over time. She draws from many sources to create her unique sound.
Covering various artists with friends helped develop her technical skill. This openness to different genres contributed to her rich, soulful vocal delivery. Her style feels both timeless and contemporary.
Deep Dive: The Meaning Behind The Song: Lately by Celeste
Listeners connect with this piece because it articulates a universal struggle between comfort and change. It’s not about a simple goodbye but the complex mix of feelings that come before a major life decision.
Themes of Love, Change, and Monotony
At its heart, this track explores a love that has lost its spark. The protagonist feels trapped in a routine but still cares deeply for her partner. This creates a powerful tension between affection and the need for freedom.
The theme of monotony is strong. It shows how even the best relationship can start to feel suffocating over time. This is a feeling many people recognize from their own life experiences.
Lyrical Analysis and Emotional Nuance
The words are remarkably honest. Lines like “lately, I’ve been lying” show vulnerability and self-reflection. She admits her own role in the situation, which makes the song deeply relatable.
There is a key turning moment in the lyrics. The declaration “I’ll hold my hand tonight if I have to” signals a new self-sufficiency. It’s a transformative way of thinking about love and independence.
Celeste’s collaboration, as noted in a 2020 interview, with Gotts Street Band adds a warm, soulful sound. This music contrasts beautifully with the difficult thoughts in the lyrics.
- Complex Emotions: Captures the guilt and determination of wanting change.
- Relatable Struggle: Many have felt stuck between caring for someone and needing to grow.
- Musical Contrast: The comforting music makes the hard message easier to hear.
Celeste’s Storytelling Through Visuals & Music Videos
Celeste demonstrated her multi-dimensional artistry by translating musical themes into compelling visual narratives. Her approach to music videos showed she understood how imagery could deepen a song’s emotional impact.
The Creative Process Behind the ‘Lately’ Visual
For the “Lately” video, Celeste drew inspiration from classic cinema’s romanticization of everyday scenarios. She sketched scenes from her daily life and collaborated closely with director Sam Hiscox to bring her vision to life.
The decision to build sets in a plain white studio space was intentional. This artistic choice focused attention entirely on human interactions and emotional moments. It stripped away distractions to highlight intimate stories.
Celeste worked meticulously with Hiscox on transitions between shots. They ensured each scene flowed naturally into the next. This technical craftsmanship created seamless visual storytelling.
A charming personal touch emerged when Celeste cast her crush as the love interest. This decision added authenticity to the creative process. It reminded people that artists bring personal desires into their work.
The collaboration with Gotts Street Band created perfect harmony between sound and visuals. Their vintage style complemented Celeste’s vocal approach beautifully. This synergy made the release one of her standout visual tracks, much like Charlotte Lawrence’s approach in Slow Motion.
Final Reflections on Celeste’s Soulful Message
Compilation 1.1, released in December 2019, gathered several velvety tracks that defined a pivotal moment. This collection showcased a songwriter reaching a new level of artistic clarity.
Alongside other powerful songs like “Both Sides of the Moon,” the release painted a complete picture. It explored complex relationship dynamics and the courage required for self-discovery.
Her voice carries a timeless quality, blending raw emotion with polished studio craftsmanship. This sound feels both intimate and grand, connecting deeply with people.
Ultimately, her work offers a profound sense of understanding. It validates universal feelings, making listeners feel like they are not alone in their experiences.
FAQ
What is the song ‘Lately’ by Celeste about?
The track explores feelings of emotional distance and change in a relationship. It captures that moment when you realize things aren’t the same, touching on themes of love and the monotony that can sometimes set in over time.
How would you describe Celeste’s musical style?
Celeste’s sound is deeply soulful and rich. Her powerful voice and thoughtful songwriting create a unique blend of classic soul with a modern, heartfelt touch that feels both timeless and fresh.
What was the inspiration for the ‘Lately’ music video?
The visual for ‘Lately’ focuses on raw emotion and storytelling. It mirrors the song’s intimate feel, using simple yet powerful imagery to highlight the personal thoughts and relationship struggles in the lyrics.
How has Celeste’s career evolved over the years?
A> Her career has grown steadily from early performances to major studio releases. Moving from Brighton to Los Angeles influenced her sound, helping shape her into the celebrated singer-songwriter she is today.
What makes ‘Lately’ stand out among her other tracks?
The song’s honest look at the complexities of love and its hauntingly beautiful melody make it a standout. Its emotional nuance and relatable story connect deeply with listeners.
