ellie d.’s “Stayed Home” takes us on a poignant journey through the depths of heartache and the haunting feeling of regret. With soulful lyrics and melodic composition, this song captivates listeners, immersing them in a story of lost love and longing, since it is full of pain and nostalgia. The song opens with a sense of yearning and nostalgia, setting the stage for an emotional rollercoaster. The lyrics beautifully convey the pain of revisiting memories, as ellie d. reflects on the corner where a first kiss once blossomed. This southern California native, is a singer/songwriter and indie pop artist with a very soothing sound that paired with her youthful spirit, giving a fresh addition to the music scene. 

The pre-chorus of “Stayed Home” lays bare the protagonist’s emotions, trapped in a loop of memories and the anguish caused by a love gone awry. “Even if you really miss someone and wish you were back in your life, you might be telling yourself things like ‘I wish I never met them’ so you don’t have to experience this pain. It’s about thinking this person was going to be in your life for a long time and being so stuck you can’t move on”, ellie said.

Her voice conveys a raw vulnerability, making the listener feel every word. The chorus becomes a powerful refrain of self-discovery and hindsight, with lines like “I should’ve left you at the door” and “I wish could go back in time.” These lines resonate deeply, as many can relate to the regret of not heeding warning signs in a relationship.

In the second verse, the artist explores the notion of trust and the illusion of safety in love. This verse adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing the protagonist’s longing for a past that once felt secure. The bridge acts as an emotional crescendo where ellie‘s vocals reach their peak, conveying the heart-wrenching truth that some wounds are irreparable.

The video shows a solitary protagonist, who remembers with each musical note an experience with the couple who is no longer here and who regrets what happened. The video genuinely manages to collect nostalgia and pain to expose it in a subtle, but real way.

ellie is also working on collabs with other DJs and trying to venture into the EDM world. She has been featured on Spotify editorials such as Sad Hour, Fresh Finds, and Fresh Finds Pop as well and has had success with Discover Weekly and Release Radar algorithmic playlists. 

“Stayed Home” by ellie d. is a beautifully crafted musical piece that delves into regret and heartbreak. The artist’s heartfelt delivery and evocative lyrics make it a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt the pain of a lost love. It’s a song that invites introspection and reflection, reminding us that sometimes, the best decision is the one we never made.