Ottawa-based singer-songwriter Heliara returns with “I Know That You Love Me,” a refreshingly honest and heartfelt pop track about the beauty and complexity of loving – and being loved by – your opposite. As the newest offering from her upcoming EP Everything’s a Love Song, the single captures the contradictions of real-world relationships, embracing both their joy and imperfection with wit, vulnerability, and irresistible rhythm.

“Falling in love with your polar opposite has its beauties and challenges and this song documents the journey of a very real long-term relationship,” Heliara shares. “It may not be your typical love song, but it is a love song nonetheless, infused with the vulnerability, quirkiness and authenticity that typically characterizes my songwriting.”

Originally written and performed live in 2024, the track took on new life nearly a year later when Heliara revisited and rewrote most of its lyrics, sharpening the focus on authenticity and emotional contrast. Produced by Steve Foley at Audio Valley Recording Studio, the final version brings together lo-fi textures and pop polish – a sonic reflection of the song’s dualities.

“Steve suggested adding this cool lo-fi beat to the verses, which gives them such a neat colour before ascending into the more traditional pop beat of the chorus,” Heliara explains. “There’s also this rhythmic ‘push’ in the chords which gives it an energetic, danceable and interesting flow. The bridge has a more hip-hop style beat under it, which provides a marked contrast to the verses and chorus.”

Balancing vulnerability and confidence, the single continues Heliara’s mission to make music that feels real – songs that mirror the full range of the human experience, from messy to magical. “As a songwriter and creative, I feel that my music gives a voice to those who may see themselves reflected in my own humanity, vulnerabilities and struggles,” Heliara says. “Life can be a wild ride, and we are all in it together!”

Heliara is a passionate singer-songwriter and storyteller whose music blends heartfelt pop and indie folk with emotional authenticity. Hailing from London, Ontario, and now based in Ottawa, she has been writing songs for as long as she can remember. Her 2022 debut album Starry Skies explored love, friendship, motherhood, and self-discovery, while singles like “Under the Pines,” “He’s (no) James Bond,” and “Cloak of Fear” showcased her range from cinematic folk to empowering pop-rock.

A semi-finalist in the 2024 Music in Motion Awards Competition, Heliara continues to establish herself as one of Ottawa’s most sincere and relatable voices. “I Know That You Love Me” follows her uplifting single “Self-Love” and serves as the next chapter in her forthcoming EP Everything’s a Love Song – a collection exploring the many faces of love with heart, humour, and humanity.

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