An explosive new single with anger as its muse: ‘Good Grace’ by Nieve Ella
Following the October 2024 release of her third EP, Watch It Ache and Bleed, Nieve Ella is back with her new, explosive single, Good Grace, a gritty, guitar-driven anthem to rage.
Assured in its enough-is-enough stance, the song is an unapologetic middle finger to those who have mistreated Nieve, propelling her amongst the ranks of women artists who embrace anger as their muse.
The first verse immediately calls out the doubters, “I can't help but wonder if you're gonna fuck it up and / Screw me over with your bad taste.” Nieve may be in her early 20s, but that shouldn’t discount the vision and drive she has for her music. Tired of being dismissed, she says “If you don't wanna be here / Maybe you should stay clear.”
Photo credit: Mollie McKay
On the roar of the guitars, the chorus swoops in, calling out those who think they know better than her: “You're punching, you're punching, you're punching / Above your own weight.” Nieve puts herself center “I’m stunning / I’m gorgeous” and, in all her self-assured glory, boldly proclaims “I get my own way.”
With Good Grace, Nieve empowers her listeners to trust who they are now and who they’re evolving into. The second verse is a vote of confidence in yourself: “I'm carrying the weight of my own life.” While past experience does not define you, it’s shaped your perspective and had an impact on your instincts. Believe what it’s telling you as you move forward. Then, “Driving like a learner,” is a cheeky reminder that you don’t need to be an expert in your life right now. There’s power in figuring things out and learning from mistakes.
The song’s bridge humors an alternate vision for Nieve’s life, “If I tried, I could be a good wife.” In a world that’s trying harder than ever to convince women to forgo who they’re meant to be and box themselves into traditional gender roles instead, Good Grace shoves back with both hands.
People gravitate towards artists who aren’t afraid to be raw and vulnerable; someone they can not only admire but learn from. Nieve seems to have found that sweet spot with her fans. Her live shows something of a phenomenon with packed rooms of thousands, screaming choruses, fans trading gifts and stories, Nieve’s music is emotional honesty backed by loud, energetic indie rock instrumentals. With a repertoire of songs about the trials of navigating heartbreak and early adulthood, it’s easy to understand her fans’ fervor and loyalty.
Photo credit: Mollie McKay
In a way, Good Grace is a callback to the iconic line from the 1987 movie Dirty Dancing - “Nobody puts Baby in a corner.” Basically, don’t mute or shrink yourself to make others feel comfortable. If you have something to say or do, then grab your moment in the spotlight and go for it.
“I’ve got my own voice and I’m not afraid to use it,” says Nieve - and isn’t that what society needs right now? A fearless generation unafraid to express their desire and dissatisfaction at full volume with the indie-popstar at the helm.
Currently, Nieve is on the road across the UK and Europe. With tickets selling fast, make sure to check if she’s coming to a city near you below: