Following on the heels of the recently released single, “Too Old (For This Shit),” Edmonton, AB singer-songwriter Ellie Heath shares “Pushing Forty,” the title track of her upcoming debut album, Pushing Forty.
It’s an energetic and uplifting pop anthem that embraces aging not as a limitation, but as a moment of clarity, confidence, and forward motion. Built on driving rhythms and bright production, the track captures the feeling of standing on the edge of a new chapter and reflecting on where you’ve been while moving enthusiastically toward what comes next.
“I wanted this record to feel more upbeat, celebratory, and empowering than some of my previous work,” Heath explains. “For the title track specifically, I was chasing the kind of driving, uplifting energy I remember from pop-rock songs I loved in my youth. Writing an empowering pop song about turning 40 felt hilarious, poignant, and perfectly timed, especially for people who are now entering a similar life stage.”
The song began with a drum pattern inspired by the feel of The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside,” setting the tone for everything that followed. From there, the chords and melody came together naturally, shaping a track that balances nostalgia with present-day self-awareness. The result is a rare kind of pop song; one written not about youth, but for listeners navigating adulthood with the same desire for joy, energy, and connection.
The title itself reflects Heath’s current moment in life. “I turn 40 later this year,” she says. “The title reflects being right on the edge of a new chapter: looking back at where I’ve been, taking stock of where I am now, and preparing to move forward with intention.” Rather than treating aging as something to resist, “Pushing Forty” reframes it as something worth celebrating.
The song also marked a turning point creatively. Written early in the album process, it helped define the broader sonic direction of the record, opening the door to a more dance-forward and confident pop sound. The fast, driving rhythm mirrors the song’s central theme of momentum and continues onward without apology or hesitation.
