ELY HOLT - Homesick
"By blending the sounds of folk, rock, blues, and Americana with poignant lyrics, I craft songs that resonate with listeners on a deeper level" Ely Holt
By Grace
10/3/20241 min read


On Rotation: ELY HOLT "HOMESICK"
Ely Holt, an indie-pop artist originally from Montana, released his debut track, Homesick. It’s a thoughtful track that explores the uncertainties of life- or perhaps more the uncertainties of your early adult years. While the title might suggest a simple longing for home, Holt’s debut single delves much deeper, reflecting the emotional confusion of trying to figure out where you’re headed when you’re unsure if “home” is truly “home.”
With his polished songwriting, undoubtedly partially honed through his education at Berklee College of Music, Holt creates a track that is undeniably relatable. Lyrically, Homesick perfectly captures this sense of disorientation, centered around the haunting hook, "I am still a child / homesick for somewhere I’ve never been." Rather than being a traditional narrative about missing home, the song speaks to the deeper existential struggle of searching for a place where you feel you belong - asking “Who am I?” multiple times in the emotion-filled post-chorus.
The production of Homesick perfectly complements its lyrical themes, starting with soft, minimalist guitar riffs before expanding into a more layered and atmospheric arrangement. The instrumentation gradually builds throughout the track, creating a song that mirrors the uncertainty and tension of the lyrics. Subtle piano melodies and rich harmonies add depth, while Holt’s clear, emotive vocals remain the focal point, allowing the words to resonate.
While Homesick, might just be Holt’s debut track, you would mistake the sound for that of fellow Berklee College of Music attendee John Mayer. All in all, Holt’s Berklee training is evident in the nuanced composition and lyrical depth, making Homesick a standout track that speaks volumes to anyone grappling with life’s uncertainties.