Hailing from Toronto, alt-pop singer-songwriter Devon Cole recently unveiled her stunning new single, “Call U After Rehab.” While fans may recognize her from catchy hits such as “W.I.T.C.H.” and “Hey Cowboy,” this latest offering reveals a more tender and introspective side of the artist.
With “Call U After Rehab,” Devon explores the emotional journey of stepping back from a relationship to focus on self-improvement and healing. The track is a testament to the musician’s bravery in confronting her personal struggles and letting go of toxic habits. Her candor and vulnerability will undoubtedly resonate with listeners who can relate to the broader theme of self-care in their own lives.
At only 24 years old, Devon has quickly established herself as a force in the alt-pop realm. Her compelling track “W.I.T.C.H.” has already surpassed 70 million streams, while the infectious “Hey Cowboy” further demonstrates her prowess in crafting tunes that blend pop sensibilities with thought-provoking messages. Devo’s signing with Arista Records in 2022 has set the stage for her inevitable breakthrough.
Keep an eye out for our conversation with Devon Cole below, where we’ll delve into her new single “Call U After Rehab,” her how style informs her artistry, and what lies ahead for this rising talent. Don’t miss this opportunity to get to know a captivating artist who is set to leave a lasting impact on the pop music scene.
Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind your new single “Call U After Rehab” and what message you hope to convey through it?
The inspiration for CUAR came from my personal life. It’s one of the more autobiographical songs I’ve ever released. I did go to rehab last year, and this song was written around the time when I was making the decision to go. It’s one thing to preach the importance of self-care, but it’s another thing to actually do the work. And the work was what I was afraid of. But I’m glad I did it, and I have a much better understanding of who I am because of it. The message that I want to convey is that it’s okay to protect your energy, and take a break from anything that’s standing in the way of your mental health.
Thematically, I think many people will find the song incredibly relatable when it comes to navigating, and sometimes having to put love and relationships on pause, amidst all the other things that life throws your way. In your opinion, what’s the best way to move forward when everything that follows is seemingly uncertain or heartbreaking?
The best way to move forward, I think, is to lean on friends and family. Humans are literally not wired to be alone as often as we are. We evolved to work in groups and to rely on one another. Understanding that about human nature was really monumental to me. Sometimes it feels so hard to just pick up the phone, or ask for help, but it really does help to talk to people. And spend real time with friends and family – away from work and the minutia of daily life.
You described it as your most vulnerable release yet. How do you cope with the emotional toll of sharing such personal experiences through your music?
I try to remind myself that if it’s hard for me to write and release, then it will probably resonate with someone. And that’s the whole reason I make music – to connect with people, and have my words resonate with them.
I particularly loved the music video and the various transitions and props throughout—what was it like working with Eliot Charof on this one?
It was amazing! His team did such an amazing job of adorning the space with kitschy decor. Eliot really understood the vision of playing with themes of independence and codependence. He did a wonderful job with the dark-to-light transitions I had in mind. It was a very rewarding shoot.
Your style has been praised by many, whether it be during performances or in your music videos. How do you approach fashion and what role does it play in your overall image as an artist?
Oh my gosh, this is the sweetest thing ever and literally my favourite question I’ve ever been asked. I think fashion is such an important tool for self-expression. It’s a form of story telling.
Can you tell us about your wardrobe for “Call U After Rehab”? The pearl necklace and earrings were so chic!
Aww thank you! I told my stylist Jordan that I wanted to be grandma chic for this video, and she nailed it. Working with stylists is a new thing for me, and it’s been an adjustment since I’m such a control freak, but once you find people you trust (Jordan being one of those people), it’s really fun and less stressful than figuring out my outfits alone. Jordan found the necklace for me. She did push back on me wearing my Calico Critter earrings, but I insisted.
Coming from the perspective of an artist, what advice do you have for people who want to express themselves through fashion and beauty?
I would say – and this is something that I need to remind myself of – that it’s a journey. I saw a post come up on my feed the other day of this maximalist fashionista, and she shared her fashion journey over the past 10 years. The transformation is INSANE. It just reminded me that you can’t expect to be the most refined artist out of the gate – it happens over time. When I find myself feeling sad about not having achieved X and Y yet, I try to remember that I’m in this for the long haul and that this is just the beginning.
This record serves as your first of the year, arriving a few months after “Hey Cowboy” which landed you #1 Breakthrough Pop Artist on Amazon, and honestly I think it signals a good start for 2023. Do you have anything on your bucket list for this year?
OOO! I definitely have a bucket list. I’d love to connect more with my current fans and gain some new ones. I’d love to open for someone on a fall tour slot. I’m working on getting better at guitar and more comfortable on stage. And this is more embarrassing, but I’d love to be on a billboard in Times Square. That would be mega. But I’m just gonna continue putting my faith in the universe and believing in myself, and we’ll see what happens. Hopefully wonderful things.
