Empathy V. Experience: Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish rose to stardom at just fourteen years old with her song Ocean Eye. With an impromptu home studio, poetic lyrics, and the musical talents of Billie and her brother Finneas, the duo would later accomplish musical acclaim far beyond their years.
The level of maturity evident in her debut EP don't smile at me stuns listeners. Eilish crafts the album in her original style, distinct from youthful pop songs. Her fusion of solid electronic beats and moody ballads sets her apart from traditional sounds. Lyrics concerning topics such as hurt, heartbreak, love, and growth accompany her unique instrumentals. Issues that many regards outside the scope of a traditional teen girl.
Eilish recognizes that the sentiments of her music are often outside her typical experiences. The singer/songwriter indicates that one does not need to go through something to write about it. In this sense, Eilish detaches herself from her present life, writing from the perspective of others or perhaps her future. This profound ability stems from the empathy she embodies as an artist.
Empathy is the uniquely human ability to feel the emotions of external people or circumstances. A lack of understanding or empathy polarizes people, witnessed in the American political climate. As political analyst Van Jones states in an interview with Oprah Winfrey, "There is an empathy gap. I can understand my pain, but I can't understand their pain. They can understand their pain, but they can't understand my pain." Within politics, individuals align with parties tailored to their needs and values. Through this sole consideration of the self, the needs of others are often disregarded.
Understanding external perspectives and pain unites the population, or in Eilish's case, broadens her fanbase. Alongside experience, empathy is valuable.