Ella Jay Basco – Bubble Tea

By starrymag | October 6, 2022

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound? 

 

A) I would describe my sound as very upbeat, tuneful, and melodic. I would also categorize myself as an indie pop artist. But really, I love all genres of music.

 

Q) Who were some of your musical influences growing up and what do you think you took away from them in your own musical career?

 

A) Growing up I loved listening to Adele, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Taylor Swift and One Direction. My parents made sure I had a variety of musical influences, which I am super grateful for. I would say I took away a lot of inspiration from Taylor Swift’s career and how she’s a singer songwriter. I always loved the way she plays the guitar and writes her own songs which is something I do as well.

 

Q) I want to congratulate you on the release of “Bubble Tea.” This song is such a vibe – I’ve had it on repeat! Tell us a little bit of what the writing process was like for you.

 

A) Thank you so much. “Bubble Tea” is one of my favorite songs!! The writing process was so easy and kind of rolled off the tongue. I wanted to have a hook or line that everyone could sing, which is “Bubble Tea,” and from there I was able to write some versus and a chorus to go along with it. I also wanted to make sure I got as many Asian references in there as possible which is why I mentioned Black Pink, K-Town LA, sushi in the street and so many more.

 

Q) You worked with producer Casey Dunmore for the song, but how much of a hand in the production did you have?

 

A) I was actually able to co-produce the song with Casey, which is why I love working with him so much. I had a big say in a lot of the technical decisions we made, which was so cool to look at from a musician’s perspective. He gave me full freedom to pick which drum kit I liked to the sound of the guitars. He always encouraged me to claim my own sound, which is a lesson I’ll never forget. We worked really well as a team, and I had such a fun time making the song with him!!

 

Q) Since you are a part of social media, what kind of fan response have you been receiving to the song?

 

A) We received some pretty great responses through social media for the song. I had a lot of kids and older adults who really appreciated the representation Bubble Tea had through the music video. Otherwise, we had just lots of support and love through all of the platforms which was awesome.  NickMusic and MTV/Brand Spankin New (via PlutoTV) picked it up and streamed it quite a bit!

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song “Bubble Tea” that fans really connect to?

 

A) For me, it was important to write a song that specifically relates to Asian kids, which is why I had so many fun references to our culture. But really this song is meant for anyone who loves to have a good time with their friends. I always love blasting music in the car and screaming at the top of my lungs, which is what I hope fans can relate to as well with “Bubble Tea.”

 

Q) Who would you like to collaborate with on a song most with in the future? 

 

A) I would love to collaborate with Japanese Breakfast. I’ve seen them in concert before and they are amazing!!

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming soon that we can look forward to?

 

A) I’m constantly putting out and writing music. I released my debut EP Middle School and we’re currently working on more stuff so stay tuned!!

 

Q) You’re an actor as well. When you think in terms of careers, do you find it harder being a musical performer or an actor?

 

A) I think both careers have their challenges for sure, but I definitely think that being an actor is harder. The job is very physically and emotionally draining, especially when you have to do school half the time as well.

 

Q) Are you busy working on any upcoming acting projects fans should look out for?

 

A) Yes, I actually just did a show for Peacock called “A Friend of the Family,” which releases in October. But there are also some things in pipeline I’m not allowed to talk about which is exciting.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) Thank you so much. I love you all!! And make sure to stream “Bubble Tea” with your delicious boba drink in hand. [smiles]