ZELO has never been afraid to try something different, and “ELA” is another step away from the sound many fans first knew him for. Instead of going for a powerful K-pop sound, ZELO takes a different approach with the song. The Latin-inspired pop track is light and very catchy. But while the melody feels carefree, the lyrics tell a much more emotional story.

The main theme of “ELA” is a relationship that never really ends. Two people have gone their separate ways, yet one of them keeps coming back whenever they feel lonely. That uncertainty is summed up perfectly in the chorus:

“She just wanna be alone, but calls me when she’s on her own.”

It’s a simple line, but it’s one that many people will recognise. Whether you’re a man or a woman, chances are you’ve either been the person waiting for someone to make up their mind or the one who couldn’t quite let go. Those mixed signals can be exhausting, and ZELO tells that story in a simple, honest way.

“Please don’t call me baby, you don’t really mean it” is perhaps the lyric that sums up the whole song. There is no anger in those words; instead, there’s disappointment and the realisation that sometimes affection can become just another habit. You know the relationship isn’t what it used to be, but hearing those familiar words still makes it harder to move on.

In the second verse, ZELO looks back on a relationship he believed would last, only to realise they wanted different things. Rather than blaming the other person, he accepts that it’s time to move on, even if he’s not quite ready to let go. That’s what makes “ELA” so relatable; it’s not really about a dramatic breakup or a messy ending, it’s about the feelings that are hard to let go of.

Musically, the song keeps things light; the Latin-inspired rhythm, smooth guitar and catchy chorus give “ELA” an easy, summery feel. It’s a clever contrast because while the lyrics talk about heartbreak and confusion, the music never feels heavy. Instead, it reminds you that life goes on, even when you’re still carrying someone in your thoughts.

The track was written and composed by ZELO, Ronnie Icon, johnj and MSICK, and their collaboration has resulted in a very well-produced song.

“ELA” may surprise listeners who were expecting another K-pop or hip-hop track, but that’s exactly what makes it so interesting. While I’d still love to hear ZELO return to hip-hop – he’s an incredible rapper – I have to applaud him for stepping outside his comfort zone. No matter the genre, he has a way of making the music feel like his own.

Without a doubt, “ELA” is an easy song to enjoy on the first listen, but it’s the honesty in the lyrics that will keep people coming back.

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Written by Maggie Gogler

Featured image courtesy of VLACKSQUAD

_{View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to film, music, and the arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. As we continue to grow, we aim to deepen our coverage of Asian music while remaining committed to exploring and celebrating creativity across the global arts landscape.}