Singapore-based independent pop artist Estelle Fly is embracing a newfound sense of creative freedom with “Bury It,” her first output in what she describes as her new “Desire Era.” 

Fly opened up about the experiences behind the song, her transition from a structured J-Pop environment to becoming an independent artist, and how the different phases of her career have shaped the performer she is today.

For Fly, “Bury It” is more than just a new single. It marks a turning point after years of writing about healing and stepping into womanhood.

The song also explores a side of Fly that she feels more comfortable expressing now: desire, vulnerability, attraction and the complicated emotions that come with wanting something or someone.

“I’m less interested in documenting a specific person or moment and more focused on capturing an emotional truth that people can relate to through their own experiences,” she explained.

Asked how she would describe her sound to someone unfamiliar with her music, Fly admitted that the easiest answer would be pop. But she believes her music goes beyond labels.

“I hope that my music is a catalyst to unlock these memories for you,” she said, describing her sound as a “doorway” through which listeners can revisit memories and feelings of their own. She added that her music can be “seductive” and “mysterious,” but ultimately wants listeners to experience the songs in their own way. 

This creative freedom was not always easy to navigate.

Fly began her career in Japan at 17 as part of J-Pop group Sea*A, where she became accustomed to a highly structured environment. While the experience taught her discipline, she said she was also used to receiving instructions rather than making the creative decisions herself.

Transitioning into independence was therefore “rough,” she admitted. “I was terrified at first because I wasn't used to making all the calls,” she said, crediting her supportive team for helping her trust her instincts.

That confidence now extends to her creative process.

“I feel it kind of defeats the purpose of the process,” she said, explaining that the experiences involved in creating music and art are important to an artist’s development.

More than anything, Fly said she now desires to live authentically, create work she can be proud of, and surround herself with people who inspire her.

“As a woman, I think I’m no longer afraid to admit all of these things and wanting to want, be free to want, and to dream big,” she said.

Her personal evolution is also reflected in the music video for “Bury It,” which follows two friends whose obvious chemistry becomes increasingly difficult for those around them, and themselves, to ignore. Fly said her acting experience helped her bring the story to life, although she admitted it was surprisingly difficult to act romantic toward her longtime friend who plays her love interest.

Fly also has her sights set on reaching more listeners in the Philippines. She recalled spending only 24 hours in Manila during a previous visit and hopes to return to properly experience the country, including its food and famous “BER” months.

She also named BINI as dream collaborator.

Fly is now looking forward to revealing more of her independent musical identity through upcoming releases.