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It can be a struggle to hold onto your identity in the music industry; just ask rising pop artist Dolly Ave. But with her latest releases, the singer-songwriter is doing things her way. 

In 00s-inspired lead singles “Bad Brain” and “This Spell,” Ave balances the tightrope of uncertainty and trusting in your own instincts, declaring on the latter track, “I’ll do it my own way,” and “Don’t kid yourself // I’m deep under the spell and don’t want no help.”

It’s a feeling the artist has plenty of experience with. 

“You truly must love this craft enough to pursue it full-time,” she told OnesToWatch. “The music industry has no linear path and you've got to be comfortable facing rejection. This path is quite frankly an investment in yourself.”

Ave added, “My years as a freelance photographer conditioned me early on to deal with moments of uncertainty. It gets easier, but what centers me is trusting what I offer in this space. However, I don't believe you ever lose that feeling because that seed of doubt also fuels you to continue and challenge yourself. I write a lot about these feelings because they are universal whether you're in entertainment or not. We aren't sure of the future because it's unpredictable, but the best scenarios often result from betting on yourself and taking a leap of faith.”

While these new songs see a more confident Ave, she shared that it took some time to get there. Reflecting on her 2023 album, This Is Our Time, she said, “That album was my first attempt at creating a body of work, experimenting with my voice, and ultimately learning what I dislike. It was necessary to get me where I am today.”

Ave calls herself a “stronger performer and writer” these days, adding, “And I have learned the power of the word ‘no.’ When you're starting out you want to please everyone, but now I'm much better at making decisions for myself. At the end of the day it's your art — are you happy?”

She has plenty to be happy about these days, with a new album on the way — “I'm very proud of this album. I landed between comfort in myself and a more daring version of myself with these songs.” — and a tour set for this summer. 

“Performing is my favorite way to share music,” Ave said. “I'm ready to rock out with my talented bandmates. Nothing beats live music.”

So, if you’re looking for an artist who can deliver “a little melancholy, a little rage, a little frustration, and lots of guitar breakdowns,” Dolly Ave is your girl! Catch her on tour this summer starting July 8. 

Listen to "This Spell" below: