Shenella lets her vocals soar on latest single, "Set You Free"
Some songs command attention from the very first note—and Set You Free, the latest single from Scarborough-born, Vancouver-based musician, producer, and songwriter Shenella Silva, is one of them. A brooding, slow-burning ballad that transforms into a soaring pop anthem, the track is a masterclass in storytelling, dynamic vocal performance, and immersive production.
From the opening seconds, Set You Free feels intimate—just Shenella’s voice and a hauntingly beautiful piano line. There’s a vulnerability in the way she delivers the first lines, a quiet intensity that pulls you in. But just as you settle into the stillness, the song begins to expand outward, layer by layer.
Gradually, the instrumentation grows—subtle percussion, swelling atmosphere, and driving drums join in—until it blossoms into a full-fledged pop bop. The contrast between the delicate opening and the euphoric climax makes the payoff even sweeter. It’s the kind of song that feels like a personal confession one moment and an arena-ready anthem the next.
While the production is meticulously crafted, Shenella’s voice is undeniably the star of the show. She sings with a stunning mix of power and control, effortlessly navigating between soft, almost whispered vulnerability and full-throated emotional release. Her range is dynamic, her tone rich, and her delivery is packed with genuine feeling. No matter how much the song builds instrumentally, her voice never gets lost—it only soars higher.
And then there’s the chorus—catchy, cathartic, and brimming with anthemic energy. It’s the kind of hook that sticks with you long after the song ends, equal parts empowering and heartbreaking.
At its core, Set You Free is a story-driven song, with lyrics that feel deeply personal yet universally resonant. While the exact meaning is open to interpretation, there’s a clear theme of letting go, breaking free from emotional chains, and finding strength in vulnerability.
Shenella’s lyrical craftsmanship shines in the way she balances specificity and relatability. Every line feels carefully chosen, never over-explained yet deeply evocative. It’s the kind of song where different listeners might find different meanings—whether it’s about love, self-acceptance, or moving forward from something that no longer serves you.
What makes Set You Free so impressive is how seamlessly it blends raw emotion with polished production. The arrangement is thoughtful and cinematic, creating an ebb and flow that keeps listeners engaged. It’s both intimate and grand, delicate and powerful—a delicate balance that Shenella executes flawlessly.
If this track is any indication of what’s to come, Shenella is an artist we should all be keeping a very close eye on. She hit the mark wonderfully and we love her for it! Go ahead and click those links below to listen, follow along, and of course to stay tuned for more music.
Listen to “Set You Free”
Spotify
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