Ekelle turns heartbreak into self-assurance on the sleek and defiant new single '(Turn Me) Loose'

There is a controlled confidence running through '(Turn Me) Loose' that gives the track much of its appeal. Rather than approaching heartbreak through bitterness or melodrama, Toronto artist Ekelle frames emotional release as an act of clarity by capturing the moment where disappointment gives way to self-recognition and forward momentum.

Built around crisp electronic production from Audio Gibbs, the track pushes beyond the boundaries of Ekelle’s self-described Hood Pop sound while still maintaining the sharp-edged confidence that defines her writing. Pulsing dance rhythms and polished synth textures provide the foundation, but it is her ability to move fluidly between melodic phrasing and direct, conversational rap delivery that keeps the song emotionally grounded.

What makes '(Turn Me) Loose' most effective is the balance it strikes between vulnerability and composure. The lyrics acknowledge emotional exhaustion and underappreciation, but the song never lingers in defeat. Here, the artist approaches the aftermath of a failed relationship with a calm sense of self-worth, delivering lines like “you blew up a goldmine, I’m once in a lifetime” with enough restraint to make them feel earned rather than performative.

There are shades of contemporary R&B-pop crossover artists throughout the track’s sleek production, but she avoids sounding overly trend-focused. Beneath the dancefloor energy sits the familiar emotional reality of the difficult process of recognising your value after spending too long in situations that diminished it.

The production also deserves credit for understanding when to stay out of the way. Audio Gibbs builds a bright, rhythmic framework full of movement and late-night atmosphere, but the arrangement consistently leaves space for her vocal performance to carry the song’s emotional tension. That balance allows the track to function equally well as reflective headphone listening or cathartic release.

As a first release of the year, the single feels like a confident step forward. Expanding her palette without losing her identity, Ekelle demonstrates a growing versatility while remaining rooted in emotionally direct songwriting and strong melodic instincts.

'(Turn Me) Loose' understands that moving on is rarely loud or dramatic. Sometimes it simply sounds like recognising your own value clearly for the first time and walking forward without looking back.