Vicki Lovelee Grapples with Transitioning into Confidence on Phase 2: Power Struggle LP feat. Theatrical, Dark Pop Track “Double Edged Sword”
Chinese-Canadian alt-pop artist, Vicki Lovelee has been making waves from Markham, Ontario. With a background in classical piano and jazz vocals, Vicki has created a sound that’s entirely her own—what she calls “dark pop ballerina music at the opera.” It’s an intense, cinematic blend of dark pop with orchestral flourishes that truly sets her apart.
Her latest release, Phase 2: Power Struggle, is a continuation of her concept album series that began in 2021 with Phase 1: Shadows. This record dives into the complexities of personal growth, capturing the tension between self-doubt and the fight for empowerment. One of the standout tracks, “Double Edged Sword,” embodies this battle, confronting the idea of the masked fool and the false personas we encounter along the way.
Join us as we explore Vicki’s creative journey, the themes behind her new album, and what’s next for this alt-pop powerhouse.
Hi Vicki. How have you been since we last spoke?
Great to chat with you again – Things have been hectic in the best way possible! Working on this album has allowed me to find myself as an artist and in my personal life. I’ve also been working with a choreographer for my live shows, which has elevated my performances.
Phase 2: Power Struggle continues the album series you began with Phase 1: Shadows. What themes connect these two albums, and how does Phase 2 build upon the narrative you started?
Love this question! My overall message of this album series is to show the ups and downs of healing. Phase 1: Shadows highlighted the pains and struggles we face, and allowing ourselves to brood in the darkness before healing can even begin.
So this new album Phase 2: Power Struggle, moves past the sadness and pain. We’re ready to step into a more confident and powerful stance. However, healing takes patience. We’re not quite there yet and there’s an essence of power struggle – we’ll experience a lot of chaos and beauty in order to fully heal from something.
You mention that Phase 2: Power Struggle represents a period of transition and regaining confidence. Can you share a bit about your personal journey during the creation of this album and how it influenced the music?
My personal experiences definitely impacted the creation of the album! I originally wanted to call this album Phase 2: Retaliate. I wanted the songs to be only about confidence and power. A very “I’m so over it” attitude. But in my personal life, I was having a power struggle of my own. I wasn’t sad about certain things anymore but I wasn’t completely over it either. I was trying so hard to not be phased by it and realized I needed to sit with this phase in order to move on. So that’s why I named the album to what we know now – Phase 2: Power Struggle.
The focus track, “Double Edged Sword,” delves into the concept of revealing someone’s true nature. Can you elaborate on the inspiration behind the song and what message you hope listeners take away from it?
A good chunk of the album is quite dramatic and serious so I wanted to write a song listeners can have fun with. Double Edged Sword is one of them! It’s about someone who seems charming at first. But you realize they’re only nice to you for their own selfish intentions. When listeners hear this song, I want them to find the confidence to stand up for themselves. (while still having fun!)
You have a background in both classical piano and jazz vocals. How do those elements of your training influence your approach to songwriting and performance, especially in the alt-pop genre?
Understanding music theory and piano definitely helps me when I first approach songwriting. I usually play around on piano chords to create a melody. I think I get my love for theatrical drama from classical music – and also the reason why I decided to recreate Lacrimosa – a famous Mozart song. And being trained in jazz makes my overall vocal performance more distinct. It’s really cool blending my training of these different genres, and merging it with my love of pop music!
What’s next for you after Phase 2? Are there plans for a Phase 3 or new projects that you’re excited about?
There will definitely be a phase 3 in the future (which will most likely conclude the Phases album series). I’m excited to get back into writing and grow my career even more. I’m also excited to perform more shows in 2025! You can follow me on Instagram or Tiktok to stay updated @vickilovelee