Listen to “Glitter” by Eli
With curiosity firmly piqued, I recently carved out time to dive into “Stage Girl“, the debut album from New Jersey–born singer-songwriter Eli. The hype surrounding this release has been equally loud and deserved. From the first listen, it’s clear why critics have been quick to champion her. The record’s diverse musicality, a sleek fusion of 90s pop-R&B, instantly spotlights Eli’s world-class instincts as both writer and performer. Beneath the glossy sonics, “Stage Girl” unpacks themes of gender, identity, and self-belief with a candour that feels at once intimate and fiercely modern.
A standout moment arrives with the closing track, “Somebody, I’m Not.” It’s my personal favourite, an electro-pop gem whose shimmering production wraps around a tender, poignant narrative. Vulnerability sits front and centre here, and Eli delivers it with a level of emotional precision well beyond debut-album expectations. It left me craving more of this side of her artistry.
Luckily, Eli isn’t one to leave fans hanging. Pop’s newest breakout star has already been teasing new material during her sold-out one-woman shows in LA and New York, where audience members practically begged for the release of “Glitter.” Truthfully, its arrival never felt in doubt.
And what a payoff. Although leaning once again into that 90s pop-R&B palette, Eli commands the style with complete ownership. Likewise, the track’s lyrics are effortlessly empowering—
“It should feel like glitter. You should be his baby, not his babysitter… One to make you shine so bright, it’s like you shimmer.”
The hook lands instantly, and the message hits even harder: know your worth, expect more, and don’t apologise for wanting it.
From bedroom-pop beginnings to bona fide breakout status, Eli’s ascent has been nothing short of electric. With momentum on her side—and a growing fanbase ready to follow her every move—2026 is shaping up to be a thrilling year. She recently even helmed a special Apple Radio takeover, teasing an upcoming remix of Zara Larsson’s “Crush.”
Eli isn’t just arriving; Undoubtedly, she’s making sure we’re paying attention!
Connect with Eli
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