Isabel Pless is Music's Best Kept Secret

With a passion for music and amazing songwriting ability, Isabel Pless is creating a flourishing career for herself. Hailing from Jericho, Vermont, Isabel started writing her dynamic music at the age of 12. With tracks such as “Keeping Score”, “Twenty-Two” and her recent single, “Spam Calls,” you can tell her work is raw, genuine, and the most honest music that’s out right now. While preparing for her first tour, we had the chance to talk to the talented songstress about what makes her the artist she is.

How were things growing up in Jericho, Vermont?

“Things were pretty good— I certainly have a better relationship with home now that I’ve lived in other places. Vermont’s a great state to grow up in, and Jericho’s a cool town, they’re both just super duper extremely small. Everybody knows each other and it felt like growing up in a bubble. But I learned the importance of community from a very young age and Vermont has a fantastic art scene that was really supportive and inspiring. Plus I love love love my friends and family, Vermont is full of very genuine people.”

What was the moment that made you realize you wanted to take music more seriously?

“Probably when my song “Eldest Daughter” went viral on TikTok. I never considered music as a career path because I didn't think it was an option for me. And also I was scared. But the reception to that song was crazy, so in August 2021 I started to work on building connections with other artists, meeting with industry professionals (I met my wonderful manager and friend Victoria Hamersky), and asking questions about how to safely and smartly pursue being a musician and songwriter. And it’s really paid off, I love being a musician more than anything.”

If you had a movie about yourself, who would play you?

“A lot of people have been telling me I look like Charlotte Ritchie recently which is an honor. I loved her in Feel Good. She’s a little older than me but I think we could make it work.”

What is your favorite city to play in and why?

“I’ve only played in Boston a couple times but it’s been my favorite so far. I went to Wellesley college so I always see a lot of my friends at those shows and I just really love the city. I’m excited to go back in April!”

Who are your musical inspirations?

“Taylor Swift is why I started songwriting. Then I found Joni Mitchell’s music in late high school and she has had the most profound impact on how I think about songwriting. This past year I discovered Madi Diaz and her album History of a Feeling is one of my favorite albums. And I’m so inspired by so many artists who I find and connect with on TikTok– Jensen McRae, Leith Ross, Ash Tuesday, and Wesley Preis are some of my favorite songwriters right now.”

Who’s album or music comeback do you want or think will happen in 2023?

“Oh good question. I’m hoping for another Sam Fender album later this year. I think Holly Humberstone will drop her debut album. And I am praying for new Dijon. I’ll go with those three.”

What do you have in store for the rest of 2023?

“I’m going on tour in April and May opening for Donovan Woods and Henry Jamison! I’m very excited– it’s my first tour. And I have an EP coming out this year so I’m really thrilled to keep releasing music.”