Zéla isn’t just another name in the music industry — she’s an ACE. A Filipino-American singer, songwriter, rapper, and dancer who first made her mark in the USA, Zéla has been honing her craft since she was young. Her music is a dynamic blend of genres, reflecting her fearless approach to challenging herself creatively.
As the first P-Pop soloist under AQ Prime Music, Zéla’s mission goes beyond making hits — she’s here to inspire. Every lyric she pens, every beat she drops, and every performance she delivers is fueled by her passion to connect with people and spark something within them.
Her journey officially began in September 2023 with her debut single “Karma”, a track that quickly turned heads and earned her the title of Philippine Pop Top New Artist of the Year just months after release. In 2024, she followed it up with the cheeky and infectious “Pogi Boy”. On her birthday, she surprised fans with “01/01”, a heartfelt single that doubled as a gift to her loyal supporters.
Now, after a brief hiatus, Zéla is back and bolder than ever with her first full-length studio album, “Lockhart”. Named after her own surname, Lockhart is more than just a music release — it’s a statement of identity, power, and artistry. The album is a 10-track journey that blends different genres, showcases her lyrical versatility, and embodies her ACE mindset: Activate Confidence to Empower. Inspired by a personal experience, Ace reflects Zela’s journey as an independent artist who has learned to navigate the music industry on her own terms.
“The title came from a friend who once called me an ‘ace,’” Zela recalls. “I do almost everything by myself since I’m a soloist, and he said I’m able — I can handle it all. That conversation sparked the idea for the song.”
Recently, Zeila made history as the first solo hip-hop artist to perform at the Waterbomb Festival Manila, an experience she describes as both thrilling and surreal. “It was my first big stage there, and the energy was amazing,” she says. The event also gave her the chance to meet one of her idols, Korean-American rapper Jessie.
“I’ve always wanted to meet her, and it actually happened,” Zeila shares with a laugh. “She even talked to me before her performance. That moment meant so much because I admire her confidence and artistry.”
Beyond the beats and rhymes, Zeila’s music carries a mission — women empowerment. “As a woman, it’s important for me to use my platform to empower others, especially those who feel they don’t have a voice,” she says. “I want my songs to inspire women to speak up for themselves and to believe in their own strength.”
With Ace leading the way, Lockhart stands as a testament to Zeila’s resilience, artistry, and passion for creating music with purpose. It’s more than just an album — it’s a declaration of independence, empowerment, and unapologetic ambition.
