AFTER years of performing other people’s songs, Coolum Beach musician Louella has reached a milestone she has been working towards since she was a teenager – releasing her own original music.

The 24-year-old singer-songwriter recently released her debut single, Before I Go – a heartfelt folk and pop ballad inspired by time spent living overseas and the emotions that come with leaving home behind.

For Louella, who has been performing since she was 13, releasing original music has been a long time coming.

“I’ve been doing covers for the last four or five years, but about two years ago I decided I really wanted to focus on my own music,” Louella said.

“I just fell in love with the recording process. Writing my own songs and seeing them come to life has been the most rewarding part.”

Growing up, Louella learnt piano before picking up the guitar, and songwriting has gradually become her main creative outlet. While she enjoys performing well-known songs, she said nothing compares to sharing music that comes from personal experience.

Whilst Before I Go reflects on living away from Australia and the film clip was shot in Japan, Louella said the Sunshine Coast – in particular Coolum – remains at the heart of her music journey.

“There’s something really special about the local music community.

“It was sad to see venues like Solbar close because spaces for live music are so important, but it’s also been really encouraging to see people creating their own opportunities.”

That community spirit has inspired a growing number of backyard gigs and independent events across the coast, and Louella is helping lead the way.

On August 1, she will host a Backyard Bash (weather permitting) at a private home in Coolum, bringing together five local acts for an evening of original music. Ticket holders will receive the address after booking.

“It’s exciting seeing people take it on themselves to create these events,” Louella said.

“There are still great places to play like the Roads Store at Peregian Beach, but backyard shows are becoming another way for artists to connect with local audiences.”
Louella will also perform at the Peregian venue on July 23, mixing original songs with crowd-favourite covers.

Away from performing, Louella completed studies at Queensland University of Technology and gained experience behind the scenes in the music industry.

“Getting to see how labels and the industry operates has been really valuable.”

Louella counts British soul artist Olivia Dean and American singer-songwriter Lizzy McAlpine among her biggest influences.

“I love music that feels organic and timeless,” she said.

And fans won’t have to wait long for more.

A second single is expected in late August or early September, showcasing a brighter, more upbeat sound complete with saxophone and electric guitar, and she is also preparing to travel to France for a songwriting camp before heading to Sydney for a music showcase.

While opportunities are opening up interstate and overseas, Louella says she’ll always value the support she’s received close to home.

“Coolum has been where I’ve grown as a musician,” she said.

“It’s a place where people genuinely support local artists, and that’s something really special.”

For updates on performances and new releases, follow Louella on Instagram at @louellasmusic and check out her debut song on YouTube by searching ‘Louella Before I Go’.