Canadian singer-songwriter Lili-Ann de Francesco kicks off 2025 with purpose, unveiling “It’s Okay (Bittersweet),” a luminous and emotionally resonant preview from her forthcoming project Exhale. Wrapped in a sun-drenched, ethereal pop sound, the song dives into the fragile moments when friendships come to an end, with no path left forward.
Carried by a rhythmic pulse reminiscent of a long-lost pop-rock anthems of the early 2000s, “It’s Okay (Bittersweet)” is elevated by a catchy and bright chorus that creates a striking emotional contrast. Ahead of the Exhale EP, due in early 2026, “It’s Okay (Bittersweet)” will be available on all digital platforms starting June 12.
“I wrote ‘It’s Okay (Bittersweet)’ with some good friends, and it came from a place of needing to let go of something that just wasn’t right anymore. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do for yourself is walk away—even if it stings. It’s about finding strength in those bittersweet goodbyes. This one means a lot to me... it’s my first release as an independent artist after a pretty rough ride on a major label. I really hope people feel the warmth in it—the kind you can scream in your car, even if there’s a little ache underneath.” - Lili-Ann de Francesco.
Written by Lili-Ann de Francesco alongside Noa Vlessing, Éric Séguin and renowned musician and producer Derek Hoffman (Arkells, CARYS, Laraw).
Lili-Ann de Francesco is a Canadian singer-songwriter whose fusion of pop, rock, and diaristic lyricism has captured listeners around the world. Known for her emotive voice and lyrical depth, she first gained recognition as a semi-finalist on La Voix in 2015 at just 14 years old. Since then, her music has garnered over 9 million streams across platforms.
In 2023, she performed at the prestigious Osheaga Music and Arts Festival and released her sophomore EP Inhale, a deeply personal project praised for its lush production and heartfelt songwriting. In 2024, Lili-Ann won the Allan Slaight JUNO Master Class, which led to her performance at the opening night of the JUNO Awards in Halifax—further solidifying her rising status in the Canadian music scene. She has also performed at several major festivals including Festival d’été de Québec and more, steadily building a reputation as a compelling live act. Now preparing her next EP Exhale, due in early 2026, Lili-Ann continues to shape a bold, honest, and evolving musical path.
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