Interview: Edmonton’s Ellie Heath Blends Nostalgia and Renewal on Uplifting Pop Single “Pushing Forty”

Following on the heels of recently released single, “Too Old (For This Shit),” Edmonton, AB singer-songwriter Ellie Heath shares “Pushing Forty,” the title track of her upcoming debut album, Pushing Forty (out May 29th).

It’s an energetic and uplifting pop anthem that embraces aging not as a limitation, but as a moment of clarity, confidence and forward motion. Built on driving rhythms and bright production, the track captures the feeling of standing on the edge of a new chapter and reflecting on where you’ve been while moving enthusiastically toward what comes next.

“I wanted this record to feel more upbeat, celebratory and empowering than some of my previous work,” Heath explains. “For the title track specifically, I was chasing the kind of driving, uplifting energy I remember from pop-rock songs I loved in my youth. Writing an empowering pop song about turning 40 felt hilarious, poignant and perfectly timed, especially for people who are now entering a similar life stage.”

The song began with a drum pattern inspired by the feel of The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside,” setting the tone for everything that followed. From there, the chords and melody came together naturally, shaping a track that balances nostalgia with present-day self-awareness. The result is a rare kind of pop song; one written not about youth, but for listeners navigating adulthood with the same desire for joy, energy and connection.

The title itself reflects Heath’s current moment in life. “I turn 40 later this year,” she says. “The title reflects being right on the edge of a new chapter: looking back at where I’ve been, taking stock of where I am now and preparing to move forward with intention.” Rather than treating aging as something to resist, “Pushing Forty” reframes it as something worth celebrating.

The song also marked a turning point creatively. Written early in the album process, it helped define the broader sonic direction of the record, opening the door to a more dance-forward and confident pop sound. The fast, driving rhythm mirrors the song’s central theme of momentum and continues onward without apology or hesitation.

1. What did you enjoy most about the creation of this new release?
What I loved most about creating Pushing 40 was how immediately it felt like a defining moment on the record. I wrote it in the spring of 2025, and even early on it had this feel-good, driving energy that helped shape the direction of the entire album. It set the tone — upbeat, energetic, and forward-moving — and really captured the momentum and emotional headspace I was in at that point in my life.

2. Share a nugget of advice that has resonated with you most over the years.
The best advice I ever received came from my dad: “you don’t ask, you don’t get.” It’s something I’ve carried with me ever since. It’s pushed me to take risks and advocate for myself in ways that can feel scary but ultimately open doors. That mindset is actually how I ended up working with Hawksley Workman on this album — I simply reached out and asked. You never know what’s possible until you try.

3. Who would be your dream artist/band to co-headline a tour with?
There are so many artists I’d love to share a stage with. Hawksley Workman would be incredible, of course. I also think touring with Begonia would be an amazing fit energy-wise. Chrissie Hynde would be iconic, and Robyn would be a total dream. I’m really drawn to artists who balance depth with strong performance presence.

4. What sets your music apart from others in your genre?
The songs don’t take themselves too seriously — there’s humour and self-awareness woven in. I think that balance of emotional honesty and playfulness isn’t something you hear as often, and it allows listeners to connect with the music in a more human, relatable way.

5. Tell us what your favourite song is at the moment and why.
Right now I’ve been really loving “She Cleans Up” by Father John Misty. I’ve always admired how his songs feel cinematic and stylistically adventurous — like each one exists in its own world. I’m also really drawn to unique vocal deliveries, which is something I appreciate in artists like Dove Ellis and Tim Darcy from Cola. That sense of character and atmosphere in a performance really inspires me.