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Episode 167: Interview with Singer and Songwriter Bella Cole
- Aug 22, 2025
- 3 min read
Buckle up—Bella Cole has hit the gas with her latest single Drive, a high-energy pop-soul anthem that delivers a rush of adrenaline, heart, and vintage cool. At just 25, Bella is quickly becoming one of Toronto’s most magnetic new artists, blending funk, soul, and modern pop into a sound that’s uniquely hers. And while comparisons to icons like Amy Winehouse and Billie Eilish are flattering, Bella is forging a lane all her own.
“I honestly can’t remember a time when I wasn’t singing,” she says. “I’ve loved it for as long as I can remember.” Born to a British mother who filled their home with Beatles records and musical soundtracks, Bella’s early influences were steeped in classic soul and vintage melodies. As she grew older, she gravitated toward R&B icons like Lauryn Hill and Teyana Taylor, carving out a sonic identity rooted in rhythm, storytelling, and undeniable charisma.
Bella’s latest single Drive is a vibrant evolution of that identity. “It’s about a whirlwind type of romance,” she explains. “It burns bright and ends fast, but you just can’t help being pulled in because it’s all so exciting!” The track is fueled by throwback tones and irresistible pop sparkle, co-written with producer Paul Koffman. “Paul somehow takes my absolute nonsense—voice memos of me humming ideas—and brings them to life with real instruments,” she laughs.
Lyrically, Drive offers more than just ear candy. The chorus hits with bold emotional surrender:"Let me be the car and I will let you drive tonight!"Yes, it’s a spicy metaphor, and Bella’s not shy about it. “Definitely a euphemism,” she says with a grin. “But also, it's about letting go, letting someone else take the lead in the chaos, and just enjoying the moment.”
The accompanying music video ditches the typical male-centric love story for an empowering all-female narrative. Set at a drive-in, it features Bella and a crew of dancers embodying carefree friendship and fearless fun. “We had the best time bouncing off each other’s energy,” she says. “It was important to show how strong and kick-ass girls are when they’re just hanging out and having fun.”
Bella’s approach to songwriting is cinematic. She often builds tracks around fictional characters, creating stories rich with emotion and detail. “I’ll think of a barista in love with a regular, or someone heartbroken in a small moment—like making two coffees instead of one,” she shares. That storytelling instinct brings depth to her lyrics, whether they’re playful or poignant.
Though Drive is upbeat, Bella’s catalog includes more emotionally layered tracks like her spring 2025 release Hold On, showcasing the range she brings to the genre she calls “pop funk.” With soulful vocals and retro-inspired grooves, Bella’s music pushes the boundaries of pop in fresh, unexpected ways.
Currently signed to Canopy Records, Bella is laser-focused on new material with plans for an upcoming album. “Music is my number one priority right now,” she says. “I’m giving it my all.” With more releases and live performances on the horizon, Bella Cole is just getting started—and we’re all along for the ride.
Stream Drive now on all platforms and follow Bella on Instagram at @TheRealBellaCole. For links to music, videos, and updates, visit her Linktree.
🎧 To hear the full conversation with Bella Cole tune in to his episode on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience, streaming now.
