Michelle Rose is a Canadian singer-songwriter based in Vancouver, originally from Ottawa. Known for her raw, emotional vocal style and honest songwriting, she creates music rooted in real-life experiences that listeners can connect to through their own lens.

She first released music in her early adult years under the name 3llay, exploring a more EDM-driven sound. In 2023, she reintroduced herself as Michelle Rose to reflect a shift toward a more vulnerable, authentic style of music. Drawing inspiration from artists like Celine Dion and Kelly Clarkson, her work blends emotional depth with powerful vocals.

Her latest release, “Drowning,” marks a deeply personal chapter in her journey, one that reflects both heartbreak and growth. Outside of music, she is a dedicated advocate for people and animals, using both her voice and platform to support those who feel unheard.

With “Drowning” out now, we took some time to hear from Michelle Rose. Read below to learn more about Michelle Rose, the story behind “Drowning,” and what’s to come.

Hi Michelle Rose! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?

Well, my first name is Michelle and my favourite flowers are roses, so I thought why not combine the two?

What city are you from, and where are you based now?

I’m originally from Ottawa, Canada, but I’m now based in Vancouver. I moved here about five years ago, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made.

At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?

I started singing in middle school. My mom signed me up for a “Pop Star” class and it was mostly dance, but there was a singing component, and I fell in love with it. I entered local competitions and performed anywhere I could.

It wasn’t until adulthood that I decided to pursue music more seriously. I’ve been writing my own songs for a few years now and previously released music under a different name (3llay). I love everything about it, especially being able to express myself through my words and my voice.

How has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound?

I grew up in a pretty strict home where we didn’t really talk about feelings or communicate openly. There was a lot of distance and some tough experiences.

It wasn’t always easy, but it pushed me to express myself in other ways. Music became that outlet. My sound is very honest and relatable. I write from real experiences, some heavier than others, but I know I’m not the only one who’s gone through them.

How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?

I write from the heart. Everything I put out is based on lived experience. I also try to leave space for listeners to interpret songs in their own way.

We all go through difficult things, even if they look different on the surface. I want my music to connect with people through their own lens. Vocally, I lean into a raw, emotional style, that’s when I feel most vulnerable, and I think that comes through in my sound.

Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?

I keep pretty busy. On top of my regular job, I volunteer and advocate for both people and animals—especially those who feel like they don’t have a voice.

Outside of that, I love supporting local artists at live shows, going to festivals, exploring local businesses, spending time with friends, family, and my dog, and traveling. All of that keeps me inspired in different ways.

Who are some of your main musical influences?

Celine Dion is definitely at the top, being a French Canadian artist myself, she’s always been a huge inspiration. Her vocals are incredible.

Kelly Clarkson is another big one. She can truly sing anything.

Who would be a dream to collaborate with?

I would absolutely love to collaborate with Celine Dion or Kelly Clarkson. I honestly think I would melt at the simple thought of it becoming a reality.

What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?

One of my proudest moments has been releasing “Drowning.” It took me a long time to feel ready to share that part of my life. Hitting “release” on something that personal was honestly scary, but also really empowering. It felt like I was finally taking my voice back.

What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?

Be unapologetically yourself, always! Live your life for you, not for anyone else. I know it’s cliché when people say you only have one life to live but it’s the truth so live it the way you want and be proud of it.

Now onto your release, “Drowning.” What inspired this song? What is “Drowning” about?

“Drowning” was a difficult song to release. It’s about a toxic and abusive relationship I went through and how deeply it affected me. That relationship broke me.

I wrote it eight years ago and recorded it five years ago, but I wasn’t ready to release it until now. It’s vulnerable, it’s raw, and it’s unapologetically me.

That period of my life forced me to grow up quickly and learn some really hard lessons. I always try to find light in difficult situations, I can say I’m stronger because of it, but I can also say I never should have had to go through that.

What was the inspiration behind the cover artwork for “Drowning?”

I wanted it to feel vulnerable, like someone is truly drowning in emotion, whether that’s sorrow or pain.

The song comes from a really heavy place in my life, so it was important that the visuals reflected that. I wanted people to feel the weight of it before they even press play.

What was the creative process like when making “Drowning?”

The creative process was very emotional. When I first wrote the song, I was still in the middle of everything, so it came from a really raw place. I didn’t overthink it, I just wrote what I was feeling in the moment.

When it came time to record it, I had the opportunity to work with Roy Hamilton III, which was an incredible experience. He’s so inspiring and motivating. He really pushes you to be your best and genuinely believes in you. That made such a difference in the process. He helped me tap even deeper into the emotion of the song and bring out a performance that felt real and honest.

For me, it was never about making it sound perfect, it was about making it feel something. Even now, performing it brings me back to that place, but in a way where I can see how far I’ve come.

How long did it take to complete “Drowning?”

“Drowning” has been with me for a long time. I wrote it abut 8 years ago and recorded it 5 years ago, but I only just released it.

So, in a way, it took years. Not because the song wasn’t finished, but because I wasn’t ready. Releasing it was just as much about personal growth as it was about the music.

What is your favorite lyric in “Drowning” and why?

“I see my reflection every day

Sometimes, I just can’t help but look away

It’s hard for me to say that I have done wrong

But it’s time, I think you need to hear this song”

These are my favourite lyrics because when I wrote it, it was hard to look at myself and love myself. I was broken and had zero confidence left. These are also my favourite lyrics because I say I’m finally ready for you to hear this song, by you, I mean him and the world. It means I’ve grown; I’ve built myself back up and I’m okay now. It shows that I fought the fight but I’m not in it anymore.

What do you hope fans take away from “Drowning” and your music in general?

I released “Drowning” because I wanted to share an important message to those out there going through similar or tough situations. You’re not alone, it’s okay not to be okay, and things will get better. It may require some tough work to get there but it’s worth it. No one deserves to be treated poorly, especially by someone claiming to love them. There are people out there to help and support.

What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?

I’m working on a new exciting project, something more upbeat and happy. I don’t have specific dates, but definitely 2026 (maybe summer/fall).

Where can we follow you on social media?

You can follow me on Instagram @theofficialmichellerose and on TikTok @michelleroseofficial.

Before you go, let’s ask you an off-topic question. What is your favorite food?

Pizza! no question. I’m slightly obsessed with finding the best pizza in Vancouver. After five years here, I’ve tried over 70 spots…which I’m both proud and a little embarrassed about. I could genuinely eat it every day.

Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!