Music tends to grasp the heart of most people, but few are so captivated by its power at the tender age of nine. Since then, Coloradan Wellington Bullings has made music her life. She first mastered her craft through writing poetry and then studied music at Berklee College of Music. Although inspired by all genres of music, Wellington is most drawn to soul and jazz. Through waves of expressive lyrics, Wellington’s smooth voice tackles melismatic notes, a technique often used in both soul and jazz. Showcasing her vocal prowess in all its intensity and feeling, Wellington masters a skill that so few are able to replicate. For those who love the discography of Norah Jones, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald, you can find the same authenticity that these artists emanate in the lyrics and chords of Wellington’s songs.
Equity, representation, and support have traditionally been lacking in the music industry for many individuals, specifically women. “The lack of diversity when it comes to being a woman is very tough to deal with in the music industry,” acknowledges Wellington. Oftentimes, we as a society put women into specific boxes, and this is no different for the music industry. As consumers, we label female musicians simply as performers, too sexy or, conversely, too meek. In our current world, it is an almost irreconcilable effort for a woman to look in the mirror and claim her identity. However, musicians like Wellington, who lead with a love ethic and are champions of female empowerment, are shaking things up.
In truth, female musicians are much more complex than people give them credit for. Women are writers, women are sound engineers, women are singers, women are producers, women are agents. “There are so many incredible female musicians and women who are behind the scenes making things happen, but we don’t always get the representation or the opportunity to do that," argues Wellington. "You have to really advocate for yourself and surround yourself with other really empowered women in the industry who also are willing to advocate for you as well. We need more support in lifting female voices in the industry.”
Throughout her music career, Wellington believes some steps have been made to increase female visibility. But, with this advocacy comes the need for action. “We’re in a constant battle with this," says Wellington. "I think there’s more awareness around it now, and that helps, but now it’s all about taking action and making those changes and being proactive about that. I wholeheartedly believe that music that has a very uplifting and inspirational message can really change the way that you view yourself and the world... Art, in general, has the power to bring us closer to having more empathy for others as well as ourselves.”
Wellington’s song “Flame” aims to uplift members of the Black community, especially Black women. It was featured in "This is [Not] Who We Are." In addition, Wellington released a music video in tandem with her song “Blossom.” These two singles will be featured on her upcoming album, "The Only Dream," set for release early next year.
At the center of it all, Wellington loves writing music and sharing her art with the world. Whether pressing piano keys or writing with a pen, Wellington crafts stories for the soul. “Music is also so universal, and we need to feel that connection.”
You can listen to Wellington’s music on Spotify or learn more by visiting her website WellingtonBullings.com.