Jeazell Grutas, popularly known as Zelle, the voice behind many OPM hits, including Akala Mo Lang, ‘Di Na Sana, Sabihin, and the mesmerizing vocals behind Gloc-9’s Upuan, is making a comeback in the Philippine music scene as a solo artist.
Zelle is bringing back her fearless indie alternative sound, but with more depth and maturity.
“I believe timeless music evolves with you, so expect growth, but the core’s the same,” she said.
The OPM singer began as a solo artist before becoming the frontwoman of the band Zelle in 2008, which she established with her brother, Jasper Grutas. She eventually collaborated with Filipino rapper Gloc-9 on the hit Upuan. From there, it’s been a wild ride with ups, downs, and hiatuses.
Despite living in Europe for 13 years, Zelle received inspiration and updates from her loyal fans and listeners, eagerly awaiting her return. Digital streaming platforms, such as Spotify, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, contributed to this growing support by often tagging, featuring, and reminding Zelle of her past as an artist.
Now that she’s at the point in her life where everything seems to be at peace, Zelle misses the noise and chaos; she misses the complexity of life in the Philippines. She then realized that maybe she wasn’t yet done.
Feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement, Zelle’s comeback is more than just a return to the music scene–it’s her way of presenting an entirely new version of herself. She describes it as “intentional” and with more personality. To mark her return, Zelle will be collaborating with old souls and new people she met online while she was in Sweden.
Long-time fans, who Zelle is thankful for their undying support, will experience a wave of nostalgia along with a new perspective on Zelle’s music. On the other hand, new listeners will listen to what the OPM artist describes as “scars, soul, and sound.”
“Excited ako kung paano siya tatanggapin ng both OG listeners and new ears. Kasi ‘yung point of view ko sa mundo, nag-evolve. Living in a first-world country humbled me, but it also made me louder. Not in volume but in truth,” Zelle said, emphasizing empathy and rage that comes from understanding a person’s rights.
Since her last stint in the Philippine music scene, Zelle noticed the pivotal change in music distribution. Rather than seeing physical CDs, EPs, or albums, she saw how artists are now free to release their music track by track or piece by piece.
“I’m still learning; still navigating. But I love that indie artists now have more control over their art,” she said.
For now, Zelle plans to be unapologetic as she embarks on this new journey of healing, where she raises awareness for indie artists trying to survive in the system, while she finds therapy in music despite it also being her hustle.
Eventually, the OPM artist hopes to build something that lasts even when she’s off stage. Using her music, she envisions a legacy wherein people will remember her from the sounds and messages she left, which something listeners can pass on to future generations.
And to celebrate Zelle’s comeback, she recently guested and performed at Vibe, Wish 107.5 FM, Showtime Online U, and soon at It’s Showtime.
For bookings and guestings, please contact Mr. Jeman Villanueva at+639052294067 and [email protected].