A native of Long Island and the Broadway stage, pop singer-songwriter Ava Della Pietra brings an upbeat pop groove to her eager audience with her new single, “rearview mirror,” which has officially graced airwaves today, June 14th, with a music video to match.
As she impressively pursues degrees at both Harvard and Berklee College of music, Della Pietra brings to the table relatable music for the young adult ear, having released previous singles like “ego” in 2023 and “sick” on Valentine’s Day of this year. Much of her sound is based around pumping out dance-inducing beats with electric vocals that might make listeners nostalgic of the 2000s and 2010s, and includes themes of being led on, feeling “sick” in love, and dealing with the ups and downs of young adult relationships.
Inspired by performers like Lauv, Billie Eilish, and Tate McRae, Della Pietra plans to take the stage again, but this time in a way slightly different from her Broadway roots. As she prepares to release her upcoming EP, which will include fan favorites like “sick” and “happy for you,” she is excited to share with her listeners her gift on and off the stage with new releases, new shows, and so much more.
We got the chance to chat with Della Pietra to learn more about the new single, the accompanying music video, what’s next and much more.
I can’t believe we’re at the midway point of 2024. How’s the year treated you so far? Any notable highlights?
I can’t believe it either! 2024 has been flying by. Earlier this year, I recorded a few upcoming music videos, which was so much fun. I released my single “Sick” for Valentine’s Day and finished my first year at both Harvard and Berklee College of Music in early May. I just got back from a recording session in LA a few days ago. Now, I’m thrilled for everyone to hear my latest song, “Rearview Mirror!”
What can you tell us about the inspiration and back story behind the new track?
“Rearview Mirror” was inspired by a car ride where my guy friend, who was in the front seat with his girlfriend, couldn’t stop glancing back at me through his rearview mirror. It’s about those confusing moments where he’d deny any feelings for me, even though his romantic gestures said otherwise. He’d put me on a pedestal while unfairly putting her down. As the story unfolds in the song and the music video, I realize that I also have feelings for him, but end up siding with his girlfriend and leaving him behind. Ultimately, the song shifts to a deeper, metaphorical level, reflecting on why someone like that doesn’t deserve a spot in my life—why they need to be behind me, just like the view in a rearview mirror.
Where was it recorded and who helped produce it?
Jon Levine produced “Rearview Mirror,” which was recorded at his studio in Los Angeles. Working with Jon is always a blast because he fosters an open and collaborative environment. This song, in particular, was so much fun to sing because of its dramatic and “bad girl” vibes.
And what was the creative process and vision like behind the music video? Where was it filmed?
The music video was filmed in and around a diner on Long Island. My vision for the video aimed to honor the theme of supporting girls and the importance of female friendships. The lyrics provided numerous opportunities for creative visuals, such as filming through the rearview mirror and renting a really cool vintage car, which added a fun and dynamic element to the storytelling.
What has been your favorite/the most rewarding part of making this song and/or video?
I learned a lot through recording “Rearview Mirror.” When I was in the studio, I messed around with how I sang some of the lyrics to loosen up and figure out the vibe I’m going for. There were times when I was caught up in fits of laughter, amazed at how these ‘weird’ ideas actually end up enhancing the track. When I told my producer how exciting I was finding the process, he responded, “You know, sometimes people forget music’s supposed to be fun.” This experience taught me that music isn’t about getting everything spot on. It’s about having a good time, experimenting, and embracing the stuff that isn’t perfect. That’s what makes it special.
What messages or feelings do you typically try to convey in your music?
I’ve always prioritized writing honest and personal lyrics that encourage people to embrace their emotions, and I think my recent music reflects that authenticity I hope to express. As I continue to grow and evolve as an artist, I want my listeners to always feel like they’re hearing something that makes them feel seen and understood, but also something they can dance to!
What does a dream gig look like for you?
Sharing the stage with some of my favorite artists would be an absolute DREAM! Imagine if I performed with Sabrina Carpenter, Lauv, Billie Eilish, Tate McRae, Shawn Mendes, or so many others? Performing with such talented and inspiring musicians who have influenced my own music journey would be a dream come true.
If you could collaborate with any living artist whether it be a co-write, duet, tour etc. who would it be and why?
Collaborating with Finneas would be a dream come true. I saw him speak during an interview at Berklee College of Music, and it was genuinely one of the highlights of my year. He is so intelligent, and an incredible producer and songwriter. Working with him would be an amazing opportunity to learn and grow as an artist.
What are some things outside of music you like to do that defines you as a person and that might influence your music?
Outside of music, theater plays a significant role in my life. Recently, I had the opportunity to co-compose the freshman musical at Harvard, an entirely original production involving first-year directors, writers, and cast members. Additionally, I find joy in spending time with friends, particularly those with a great sense of humor, as I’m a big fan of comedy.
What are some of your goals/plans – whether musically or otherwise – for the summer and into fall?
I have tour dates scheduled for July 30th in Boston, August 1st in Philadelphia, and August 2nd in Washington DC. In addition to touring, I’ll be recording more songs and working as a camp counselor! Looking ahead to the fall, I’m eager to release a bunch of new songs that I’ve been working on. I also have plans to curate an acoustic album featuring stripped-down versions of some of my previous releases along with some new tracks.
