Following the massive success for her second single “Ain’t Lovin You”, Chelle doubles down on her signature sound with the latest release “Trouble.” Compared to her debut “Kiss Me Again” which leaned into a breezy reggae-pop fusion, “Trouble” trades that in for a noir-pop soundscape built on a pulsing synth backbone with a smoky, cinematic atmosphere.
“Trouble” doesn’t waste time getting to the point. Chelle is not trying to be clever, it’s just honest about wanting someone you probably shouldn’t, and admitting the other person feels it too. It’s nice to hear lyrics that don’t dress desire up in metaphor.
The production matches that mood well. It opens on muted guitars that feel like a held breath before the chorus arrives and properly opens up. Underneath the pop polish, there’s a soul-leaning warmth that gives the track some grit. The synths stay clean and the vocal production tucks itself comfortably into the mix without crowding anything out. Everything gets its moment without overstaying.
Chelle’s voice strikes the perfect balance between feeling reflective and performative. She uses her mid-range to her advantage and that ease keeps the tension simmering instead of boiling over. By the end, all that back and forth resolves into a repeated “Baby I want you,” and desire wins out.
With “Trouble” already picking up traction on Future Hits UK, Amazing Radio, and Breaking Sound, we caught up with Chelle to get the inside scoop on the track.
1) What’s a concert experience that you will never forget?
Seeing Paloma Faith live is an experience that stays with you. Her energy is unmatched—she commands the stage with such power and authentic theatricality that it’s impossible to look away. That kind of bold, unfiltered stage presence is exactly what I’ve aimed to cultivate during my years of performing in Ireland and abroad. You learn and grow so much as you figure out what works live and what doesn’t, especially when it comes to dealing with different people in different settings and mastering the skill of reading the room very quickly. It’s been an incredible journey taking those lessons and channeling them into my own performances, and I’m so excited to see how my live presence continues to grow.
2) What’s one thing about your city that you want to change?
I absolutely love the vibrant creative energy here! I am so focused on how we can continue to elevate original music in Ireland, ensuring our talented artists get the platforms they deserve. It’s an exciting time to be part of the scene, and I’m thrilled to be contributing to such a rich, evolving musical landscape.
3) What came first: the melody for Trouble or the lyrics?
With Trouble, it was all about the mood. I wanted to lean heavily into my own songwriting, so I started with the ‘noir-pop’ soundscape to set the scene. The lyrics and the story followed, capturing that cinematic, dark, synth-pop pulse that I’m now focusing on as an artist. It’s been such a rewarding process to watch this vision come to life and see it resonate with listeners.
4) Are you a pop girlie through and through or will you hop genres in the future?
I think my music will always be rooted in pop, but I love pushing boundaries. My sound is a blend of Modern Soul, Alt-Pop, and that Motown influence, and I’m always evolving. I don’t think I’ll ever limit myself to just one lane.
5) From your debut Kiss Me Again, to Trouble, what has changed?
My debut, Kiss Me Again, was my introduction to that signature pop-reggae fusion. Since that first release back in September, the growth has been incredible—it’s not even been a year, and I’ve already had the honor of working with the industry legend Declan Lonergan! Trouble represents my evolution into a more sophisticated, noir-pop sound with high-tension storytelling, which has been such a highlight to see get support from the industry.
6) What’s your snack of choice: PB&J or a packet of crisps?
I’m Irish—it’s got to be a packet of crisps, no question!
7) How do you deal with artist imposter syndrome?
I focus entirely on the success I’ve earned in such a short amount of time. Releasing my first song just last September and already having my music played on the BBC and featured in Hot Press is a dream come true! The approval of industry tastemakers is so reassuring as a new artist, and seeing my songs land with curators and get airplay reminds me that my voice and my writing are connecting with people in a very real way.
8) Was there pressure to make a better song than Ain’t Loving You after the BBC Introducing lineup feature?
It was more of a thrill than pressure! After the massive success of Ain’t Lovin’ You I was energized to keep that momentum going. Trouble was my way of doubling down on my original sound, and having it picked up for rotation by platforms like Future Hits UK, Amazing Radio UK and USA, Breaking Sound and the BBC, just confirms I’m on the right track. I’m so excited that Trouble is making its debut on Irish radio stations this June 14th!
9) Are you a morning bird or a night owl?
Definitely a night owl—that’s when the best writing happens.
10) What are two things you want your listeners to know about Trouble?
First, I want them to hear the ‘noir-pop’ blend—that smoky atmosphere mixed with a sharp synth-pop pulse. My goal is always authenticity over perfection. Second, I want them to feel the defiance in the songwriting; it’s meant to be a high-tension, cinematic experience.
Read the latest scoop on our recent pop favourites here.
