REVIEW: bby ivy Is ‘Closing Chapters’ and Opening New Doors in Alt-Pop Offering
REVIEW
REVIEW
☆ BY DANIELLE HOLIAN ☆
Norwegian-born singer-songwriter bby ivy is cementing her place as one of the most compelling voices in alternative pop. Known for her emotive songwriting and magnetic sound, ivy’s music captures the essence of love, loss, and self-discovery. Her 2024 releases and performances have further solidified her status as a rising star in the alt-pop scene, connecting deeply with listeners worldwide.
Growing up just outside Oslo, ivy was immersed in music from an early age. Raised in a family of musicians, her passion for the art form was cultivated by the influence of her father, uncle, and grandfather. “I guess there was a part of me already as a young kid that felt so strongly about putting the music I had in me out to the world,” she reflects. This innate drive led her to embark on a journey that took her from Scandinavia to Spain, Los Angeles, and finally London. Each chapter of her life has contributed to the unique sound she crafts today.
Her latest release, the seven-track EP Closing Chapters, is a poignant exploration of heartbreak, resilience, and closure. Drawing on personal experiences, ivy captures the raw emotions of betrayal and healing, creating a deeply relatable and transformative body of work. The EP spans genres such as pop, acoustic singer-songwriter, and acoustic pop, reflecting her versatility and ability to connect across musical styles.
At the heart of the EP is the focus track, “With My Love.” This piano-driven ballad exemplifies ivy’s talent for blending vulnerability with musical sophistication. Her emotive vocals and poignant lyrics create a track that is both heart-wrenching and cathartic. The stripped-back production emphasizes the raw emotion of the piece, making it a standout moment in ivy’s discography and a defining example of her artistry.
What makes Closing Chapters particularly resonant is its authenticity. ivy’s life journey—from her Scandinavian roots to her time in Spain, LA, and London—infuses her music with a sense of lived experience. Her openness about confronting anxiety, self-doubt, and the complexities of relationships adds layers of relatability to her songs. Listeners find solace and strength in her candid storytelling, seeing their own struggles mirrored in her lyrics.
The EP’s structure offers an emotional arc, flowing seamlessly from introspective ballads to subtly uplifting tracks. This dynamic range ensures that each song feels uniquely relatable while contributing to the broader narrative of closure and growth. ivy’s lyrical vulnerability paired with her sonic versatility keeps listeners engaged, making Closing Chapters a project that resonates on a personal level.
Beyond the music, ivy’s connection with her audience is a key element of her success. With hundreds of thousands of followers and millions of streams, she has built a devoted fanbase through her authentic engagement. Her live performances in 2024 have further strengthened this bond, with audiences captivated by her emotional energy and openness. These moments have turned her songs into anthems for those navigating the difficulties of heartbreak and healing.
“The tracks capture the raw, complex emotions that come with betrayal and healing. It’s deeply personal, but I hope it resonates with anyone currently experiencing heartbreak,” ivy shares about Closing Chapters. The EP’s lead single, “With My Love,” underscores this mission. Its poignant lyricism and stunning vocal delivery showcase her ability to transform vulnerability into powerful musical moments, resonating deeply with fans.
As 2024 draws to a close, ivy reflects on what this year has meant for her artistry. “This EP feels like the closing of one chapter and the beginning of something new,” she explains. Looking ahead to 2025, ivy’s vision is clear: “It’s about stepping into my power, embracing unapologetic confidence, and exploring new sounds.” Fans can anticipate a bold evolution in her artistic output, with a focus on more self-assured creative ventures.
Closing Chapters marks a turning point in ivy’s career. The EP highlights her growth as an artist and her dedication to connecting with listeners on a profound level. The themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and closure are universally resonant, and ivy’s ability to articulate these experiences with such emotional clarity is what sets her apart in the alt-pop landscape.
The transition to a new chapter in ivy’s career is already apparent. Her performances, both live and online, have drawn widespread acclaim for their emotional intensity and relatability. Her dedication to authentic engagement has cultivated a loyal fanbase, and with the release of Closing Chapters, she’s set to connect with an even wider audience.
Looking ahead, ivy’s plans for 2025 promise an exciting evolution in her artistry. The themes of resilience and growth that define her current work will be joined by a spirit of unapologetic confidence and exploration. As she continues to push boundaries and shape her career on her terms, ivy’s journey is one to watch. With Closing Chapters, bby ivy has not only closed a significant chapter in her life but also opened the door to an exciting and inspiring future in music.
