Rising pop star, Gillian, is well on her way to a successful career. At just 16 years old, she proves that she belongs in the musical landscape, crafting lyrics with poise and understanding.

“Static” is Gillian’s second single off her debut full-length album, 3AM, scheduled to be released later this year. The song grows from a piano ballad into an upbeat pop track, both danceable and catchy. The new track taps into her experience with social anxiety, having written it right before going out with friends. While the track is upbeat in nature, the lyrics touch upon these trials in her life.

---

What’s the inspiration behind “Static”? How did the track come about?

“Static” is about the anxiety that arises when you’re going out with friends or participating in social activities. It’s based on a true story, actually, as I wrote “Static” right before I was supposed to go out with my friends. I love spending time with them but sometimes going to crowded places can really stress me out. “Static” basically explores the feelings of social anxiety that I experience.

Generally, how does your songwriter process begin?

I try to only write when I feel truly inspired to do so. My songs feel more raw and authentic when I focus on getting my emotions out rather than just writing a song. My songs kind of act as a diary for me. I usually begin writing by thinking of one or two lines that I love and then I write the rest of the song around that. I always write with an instrument in hand — usually guitar or piano.

You have a lot of truth and honesty in your lyrics. How do you get into that vulnerable state to write?

As I mentioned above, I only write when I am feeling as though I need to. I don’t write so that I can release songs, I write because I need to release emotions. Being vulnerable in my songs took a long time to get used to, and it sometimes feels like I’m publishing a diary entry when I release my songs. However, if my vulnerability can help someone else feel less alone, then it’s completely worth it.

What can fans expect from the rest of the tracks on your upcoming full-length album, 3AM?

I can’t wait for 3AM to come out. The album is very dark and moody, but also has a lot of versatility. Songs like “Static” are more pop-based, while songs like “High” feel a lot darker. The entire album is very raw and authentic. I am so proud of 3AM, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!

How are you coping during this time? What is keeping you busy?

I’ve been doing a lot of sewing and art in my free time. I’m not great at art, but I really enjoy it and find that it’s super calming. I’ve also been writing a lot of songs!

Where do you see yourself in a year? In five years?

I have absolutely no idea. I love music so much, but I also have passion for so many other things in my life. In one year, I’ll be going into my last year of high school, and, in five years, I’ll hopefully be in college! My education is very important to me and it is definitely one of my priorities.

What do you hope people get out of your music?

Music has always been a therapy and an escape for me, and I hope that my music can do the same for someone. I think hearing someone else feel the same emotions that you do can help you feel less alone, and music is a great way to do that.

Gillian’s next era has a new direction but don’t let her independent release, Unfiltered, go unnoticed .