Let’s talk about Ava Valianti, the Newbury-based singer-songwriter who’s quickly becoming the indie-pop confidante we all wish we had in high school—and honestly, still need in adulthood. Her latest single, “Distant” (dropped on May 23rd), hits exactly that sweet spot between nostalgia and heartbreak, while somehow keeping things light, warm, and vibey enough for a windows-down summer drive.

“Distant” is like that moment when you scroll through old photos of you and your childhood best friend—laughing, carefree, practically inseparable—and then realize you haven’t spoken in a year. It’s a song about the slow fade. Not the dramatic fallout, not the fiery argument, but that soft, sad unraveling that happens when life gets busy, paths diverge, and people change.

What makes Ava’s songwriting so special here is how she bottles that very specific emotional cocktail: part sadness, part acceptance, and a tiny pinch of hope. And rather than delivering it with melancholy piano chords and moody production (which would totally make sense), she flips the script—pairing heavy-hearted lyrics with an infectious, upbeat melody that feels like sunshine with a few clouds drifting by.

“Distant is about the silent sadness that comes with losing someone without a fight,” Ava says—and yep, that’ll hit anyone with a pulse right in the feels.

Ava’s vocals are pure indie-pop gold—breathy, crystal-clear, and laced with emotion, without ever tipping into melodrama. She sings like she’s been there (because she has), but she never wallows. There’s a strength in her softness, and it’s that restraint that gives her performance weight. She’s not trying to prove anything. She’s just telling the truth, and that’s what makes it so powerful.

Let’s be real—we’ve all been the person on one end of a fading friendship. Whether it was middle school besties, summer camp soulmates, or your college roommate turned occasional Instagram liker, the sting of emotional distance is something that lingers. Ava taps into that shared human experience, and then packages it in a way that’s strangely comforting.

And can we talk about that production? It’s crisp, bright, and just vibey enough to make you bop along—even while your heart’s low-key cracking. That contrast? It’s genius. It's like smiling through tears, and it makes "Distant" both deeply personal and totally playlist-worthy.

At just 15, Ava has already done more than most artists twice her age. With a growing catalog of sincere, sharp singles like “bubble wrap,” “Middle Ground,” and “Laugh Track,” she’s not just promising—she’s delivering. She’s been nominated for two New England Music Awards, earned airplay on 150+ stations nationwide, and was named Runner-Up at the International Acoustic Music Awards.

And if you're wondering whether she can back it up live? The answer is absolutely yes. From playing iconic venues like The Bitter End (NYC) and Charlie's Kitchen (Cambridge) to opening for heavy-hitters like Jessica Baio, Ava’s live shows are quickly becoming must-see events.

With “Distant” marking her sixth single and her debut EP coming this fall, this feels like a major level-up moment for Ava. She’s finding her lane—equal parts vulnerable, witty, and wise—and we’re just lucky to be along for the ride.

“Distant” is an anthem for growing up, letting go, and still dancing through the tears. Ava Valianti has once again proved she knows exactly how to hit that emotional sweet spot—delicate but confident, melancholy but radiant. Her voice, her lyrics, her vibe—it’s all working, and if this is what her teen years sound like, we cannot wait to hear what’s next.

Add “Distant” to your favorite summer playlist, text an old friend (even if they don’t reply), and let Ava remind you that growing apart doesn’t have to mean losing the love completely. Sometimes, we just drift—and that’s okay.

“Distant” is available now on all major streaming platforms

Listen to Ava Valianti and other similar artists on our Spotify Playlist ‘New Music Spotlight - Indie & Alternative’

“Distant” - Ava Valianti

“Hunger for Love” - VANNGO

“Be Kind With My Heart” - Staci Gruber