Published on July 26, 2024, Katie Belle‘s latest track, “West Coast,” is a beautiful and evocative song that captures Los Angeles’s overwhelming appeal and mystery. The song has a very nostalgic quality with its rich mix of dream pop, electro-synth pop, and modern commercial pop aspects. Belle offers a unique interpretation of the ageless goal of chasing fame and wealth in California through its well-considered production and expressive lyrics.
With its verse-chorus-bridge rhythm, which lets Katie Belle‘s vocals stand out in a way that highlights the dreamy, almost angelic music, “West Coast” follows a typical pop form. Starting quietly, the song draws the listener in with shimmering synths and subdued beats that prepare Belle’s breathy, but powerful vocals. Layers of sound—including rich electronic textures and reverb-laden melodies—add depth and atmosphere as the tune develops, echoing the vast sky and limitless opportunities of California.
Particularly in its evocation of nostalgia and the California mythos, the song reminds one of musicians like Lana Del Rey. The dreamy soundscapes and introspective lyrics also point towards the Halsey style, whose approach Belle combines electro-pop with emotional depth can be felt. Particularly in the airy, introspective aspects of the voice and production, musicians like Lorde also clearly have an audible connection. “West Coast” builds on these inspirations rather than merely parodies them, adding Katie Belle‘s own experiences and creative sensibility to make the song hers.
The production of “West Coast,” handled by Fabio Campedelli, is one of the distinctive elements of the track. The song leans heavily on electronic instrumentation, with dominant synths and a steady, punchy beat that anchors its dreamy feel. The backdrop sounds a warm, natural quality that contrasts with the chilly, synthetic beats employing subdued acoustic work. The outcome is a soundscape ideal for Belle’s dreamy pop aesthetic—one that seems both modern and timeless.
On “West Coast,” Katie Belle gives a subtle and captivating vocal performance. Her voice is quiet but strong; she delivers the words with a sense of desire and wistfulness. Her performance is vulnerable, especially in the verses when she muses over the price of fame and the mixed nature of following aspirations. Her vocals, which capture the feeling of the lyrics while keeping a controlled, polished sound, became more forceful in the chorus. Her tonal sensitivity to the song helps to capture its emotional depth, therefore strengthening its whole appeal.
Identified as dream pop, with hints of commercial pop and electro synth-pop, “West Coast” fits nicely in the modern musical scene. It also features lo-fi pop elements, though, which lend a degree of genuineness and intimacy. The song strikes a mix between artistically expressive and commercially pleasing, something many pop songs aim for but hardly always attain.
Deeply contemplative in nature, “West Coast” explores ideas of aspiration, grief, and the irresistible draw of celebrity. Lines like “I left my love for fortune and fame to a place where it never rains / Blue skies and California ray, they don’t know my name” capture the mixed nature of following ambitions in a location as legendary as Los Angeles. The song seems to be a meditation on the price of chasing stardom—the sacrifices made; the anonymity sensed even in a city full of stars. Anyone who has ever followed a dream—especially in the entertainment business—will find resonance in these subjects, which further lends the song a broad audience.
Katie Belle‘s path as well as Los Angeles’ cultural and historical legacy shaped “West Coast”. Working with co-writer Anton Soder and producer Fabio Campedelli, Belle aimed to convey the magic and mystery of the city in a song. In this regard, “West Coast” honors the tradition of musical icons in the city as well as offers personal introspection.
This is a song that sticks with you long after the last note fades, whether your draw-in is the rich production, relevant lyrics, or Katie Belle‘s amazing vocals.