New single, “Gotta Be (stripped)”, Out Now
Hamilton, ON singer-songwriter Isabella Chiarini is a pop artist with a fearless creative edge. While pop is at the heart of her sound, Isabella intentionally explores the many subgenres beneath its umbrella, crafting music that feels both fresh and distinctly her own.
Her journey began at just eight years old, studying under renowned vocal coach and author Teresa Nocita. From singing competitions and auditions to signing with Nashville development company PCG Universal, Isabella quickly immersed herself in every opportunity to grow — and along the way, fell completely in love with the songwriting and recording process.
Her latest single, “Gotta Be (stripped)” was released today. Watch the video below, and learn more via our interview.
First off, what have you been up to since we last spoke?
Since we last spoke, I have performed at the Winona Peach Festival, I have been teaching, writing, and preparing for this new single!
You started vocal training at just 8 years old with Teresa Nocita. How did that early mentorship shape not only your voice, but your mindset as an artist?
The mentorship changes my mindset right from the beginning! I knew that I wanted to become the best singer I could possibly be. The only way I was going to get there was by putting in my time and 100% effort! It taught me a lot about goal setting, perseverance, and determination!
Your music is rooted in authenticity and empowerment. Was there a specific moment or experience that pushed you to be that open in your songwriting?
I always wanted people to be able to connect to my music! I felt that writing music that I was passionate about was the best way to be authentic! Authenticity is very important to me because you can tell when someone is genuinely proud of something versus when they aren’t! If people can feel my emotion, it’ll be easier for them to feel something too!
You’ve said music is a healing outlet for you. Can you walk us through how a tough experience turns into an uplifting track?
When writing songs, I usually let the music flow and let it go where it naturally wants to go! I think there is something so inspiring about turning a negative experience into something positive! By taking a negative moment in your life and turning it around, it shows people there is always something better coming your way!
Tell us about your new single — what’s the story behind it?
My new single “Gotta Be (stripped)” is a new version of my original track “Gotta Be” that I released last year! When I initially wrote this song I knew I wanted to make an upbeat and slowed down version because it felt like there was a need for both! The lyrics of the song are very vulnerable and I feel with this new stripped version, it allows them to shine and for the listeners to really appreciate and feel the emotion pouring through!
Was there a specific lyric in this song that felt especially personal or important to you?
I love the lyrics to this song! They rlly capture my emotion and show my vulnerability! It’s hard to pick just one line but I would say one that I really connect with is You didn’t even think of me ,And now it’s time to pay the price, Next time I won’t be so nice. I connect with those lyrics because I felt in my situation specifically that everyone was looking out for their best interest and nobody took into consideration how I was feeling or doing, which I think a lot of people can relate too!
If you had to describe this single in three words, what would they be?
Vulnerable, Strong, and Emotional.
How does this song differ from your previous releases in terms of production or storytelling?
I think this song is the most stripped back and simple song production wise I have ever gone with! I really wanted the lyrics to shine, and have the lyrics be the focus of the song! I wanted the listeners to connect with the words and emotion rather than having a lot of production behind it.
How do you see this single fitting into your long-term artistic vision?
I love the idea of releasing different versions of songs I wrote! It shows the versatility in my writing and shows how music can be viewed in so many different ways! That’s what I wanted to do with this song, and I think if the song permits, I will continue to do!
Last but not least, what’s up next for you in 2026?
In 2026 I plan to release more music of course, perform, and showcase my music in any way I can! The more people who can connect to my music, is a win in my books!