Ones2Watch Home

Photo Credit: Callum Walker Hutchinson

After a long year of auditioning for a contest of her own design, Eli has won a permanent spot in our hearts and headphones. If recent trends of popstardom have taught us anything, it’s that you have to take hold of your own destiny. From the seemingly meteoric rise of stars like Olivia Dean, Zara Larsson, and Chappell Roan, a common thread emerges; if you curate your own lane and stay consistent, it will pay off in the long run. Eli knows this to her core, and it’s the reason she’s become the internet’s favorite niche popstar of 2025. 

During her first Zane Lowe interview, a highly coveted stamp of approval for any artist, she proudly displayed a shrine up on her wall dedicated to the icon himself. She then spent a good portion of the interview praising her favorite artists, pleading to the universe for the opportunity to collaborate one day. Non-chalant doesn’t exist in Eli’s world, because it doesn’t align with the authentic experience of being a fangirl. Stage Girl was born out of love for pop music and how it can serve a greater need; the power of feeling understood and connected through shared passion. That’s why “Glitter” is the perfect encore to Eli’s unparalleled debut year. 

“It should feel like glitter” is a lyric that holistically sums up Eli’s artistic vision. The Stage Girl bonus track / finale has been a fan favorite from the first snippet, with Eli’s devoted listeners immediately connecting to both the music itself and the nod to Mariah Carey’s cult classic eighth studio album known for its rather untimely release. The lyrics take a page from the pop bible, reminding the girls to have high standards and not settle for less. The hook is instantly classic in a way that will have you singing along for the rest of your day. Eli sprinkles her magic on top, adding a hilariously relatable spoken word section (I mean we don’t have jobs either but like…) and takes it home with her always remarkable vocal runs. 

“Glitter” is the perfect note to end the year on for both Eli and her listeners, a reminder to cut out everything that makes us feel less than what we deserve. Eli’s had what can only be described as a magical year, leaving an impact while staying true to her heart every step of the way. It’s been endlessly inspiring to follow along and we can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store for this special rising star.