Ellise The PRETTY EVIL Tour - Los Angeles
- Karlee Skipper
- Aug 26
- 4 min read
Ellise The PRETTY EVIL Tour via ellisestour.com
Ellise’s latest album, PRETTY EVIL, is in my top 2 favorite albums of 2025, so far - and may honestly have earned its spot in my top 10 favorite albums of all time. The project has everything I need: vulnerable lyrics, morbid imagery, and dark beats. So, when she announced her first headlining tour, I knew I needed to purchase pre-sale tickets. Her show did not disappoint and was one of the most mesmerizing shows I have ever attended. From her stunning vocals to her magnetic stage presence, Ellise was a natural onstage and kept my attention from the very first note to the final encore.
Ellise kicks off the show the same way she does the album: with the alluring track “PRETTY.” The song lulls the listener in with a lullaby before breaking into the energetic soundscape. Ellise opening both the album and the set with this track was ingenious, as it sets the complex emotional scene for the audience. Her innate ability to keep every person in the room completely engaged, hanging onto her every word, is admirable. I have been to a great number of concerts in my time, especially shows at small venues, but no one - other than big production stadium performers - has ever been able to astonish me in the way Ellise did. Despite it being her first headlining tour, the artist performed like a seasoned professional at the same level as the biggest names in music.
One way Ellise proved her star power was her incredible stage presence. She utilized clever crowd work with eloquently spoken monologues and engaging sing-alongs. The show was not only live music, but a true performance. She gained eye contact with as many people as she could, if not every single person. Everyone in the crowd felt seen and appreciated, just like Ellise felt with us loving her songs. She shared before singing her two most vulnerable tracks, "feel better together" and "valentine," that the fans singing back the lyrics have changed the meaning to the songs. Many artists claim this; however, the authenticity behind Ellise's words was evident. Maybe it was the small, intimate venue, but I have never felt more touched by an artist's candor.
Closing night being in Los Angeles, I expected one or two surprises. Further into the night, Ellise killed two birds with one stone. She surprised us by bringing out friend and fellow artist, Ella Boh, to sing their unreleased collaboration, "Die." The chemistry between the two artists was mystical as they performed the infectious new track, which they confirmed will be released "very soon."
Ellise made the night even better by making the perfect decision for the supporting act. Ella Red warmed up the crowd with her electric personality, clever lyrics, and adorable homemade ballerina dress. From the moment she came on stage, the audience was energized. Her crowd work was infectious, making people laugh or cry at the right moment. It is rare to see an opener have as much charisma as the headliner, but Red brightly shined. By the time Ellise came on stage, the entire crowd was ecstatic and ready to scream every single lyric to PRETTY EVIL.
Seeing Ellise bring this flawless project to life in person was the highlight of my year. Her unmistakable talent and down-to-earth yet ethereal presence make her one of the most desired performers to see live. From her hauntingly beautiful vocals to her vivid imagery, Ellise became one of my favorite artists after releasing PRETTY EVIL. While I have listened to her for years (dating back to me including her in my Halloween 2023 playlist), this new project unlocked a new enthusiasm for her music. Being able to witness her magic in person is an honor, and if you ever get the opportunity to see her live, do not hesitate to jump on it. You will not regret it.
To check out my album review of PRETTY EVIL, click here.
About Ellise
Ellise is a dark-pop singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles. She moved to the area at 17 to pursue her career. Since then, she has made incredible waves in the industry. In just her first year, she was selected for the UPROXX Uncharted series to work with producer Chris Seefried to craft her first single, “Break Down.” The same year, she was a finalist in the 2016 iHeartRadio Rising Star Competition. In 2018, she released her debut EP, Can You Keep A Secret? In 2021, she released her debut album, Chaotic. She has collaborated with artists such as Iggy Azalea, Savage Ga$p, and my personal favorite, Mothica, and DeathbyRomy, in a remix of Ellise’s song, “Soul Sucker.” With two full-length albums and two EPs, Ellise is known best for her haunting dark-pop and Halloween-themed tracks that fuel the inner dark side of listeners. Follow her on all socials to stay up to date with new music and announcements!
Written By Karlee Skipper
Photos and Videos By Matthew Skipper*
*Special shoutout to my husband, who took all the photos and videos so I could have the best time without worrying about capturing anything.
*copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
