Oli "Does That Hurt?" 2022

Featuring an eclectic mix of sounds, "Does That Hurt?" sees OLI’s tender voice leading a chorus of guitars and gentle percussion taps, before the song shifts as the contrasting vocals from Gahan are introduced, complimented by other-worldly backing sounds and the occasional riff outburst.

Speaking of the song’s inspirations, OLI said: “I wanted it to seem like two people who just couldn’t see eye to eye. They both aren’t really listening to each other, they’re stuck. It’s almost like they are interrupting each other throughout the song.”

She continues: “A lot of the song was already finished when I first heard it, so I wanted to make it mesh well with what I would sing. I think I wrote 5 or 6 versions of lyrics because I was so nervous to make it work… It’s a special song to me, it’s my first time leaning into the rock genre, and I really love it.”

Diverging from pop music to a more alternative and instrument driven sound, the 25 year old Londoner found collaboration with Dave Gahan to bring in the darker, more intense male vocals, elevating the track with an irresistible push and pull between the two performers. OLI said: “Honestly, I feel pretty lucky that I was even given the opportunity to have my voice and lyrics on a song with such an iconic artist.” Having been introduced to Dave by hit-making producer Benny D, the mix of her beautifully controlled verses alongside his rock and roll snarl is a stunning display.

Growing up in a musical family and writing her first song when she was only 7, OLI always knew she was going to become an artist. Soaking up influences ranging from Sade and Dionne Warwick to bands like Stereophonics and Supergrass, OLI’s own desire to create distinctive art comes from her diverse list of inspirations.