Chapter 6: The First EP – Don't Smile at Me
In 2017, Billie Eilish released her debut EP, "Don't Smile at Me", a project that would establish her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. The EP was a collaborative effort with her brother Finneas, who produced every track with precision and creativity. Unlike typical teen pop releases, the EP explored themes of heartache, self-doubt, and complex emotions, packaged in a sound that was simultaneously haunting and captivating.
Tracks like "Bellyache" and "Copycat" showcased Billie's versatility, moving effortlessly between dark humor, vulnerability, and raw honesty. Critics praised her unique approach to songwriting and production, noting that her music defied conventional categories. It wasn't simply pop, nor purely alternative—it was entirely Billie, a new voice in a saturated industry.
The release of Don't Smile at Me also marked Billie's first professional music videos, where her distinct visual style came to life. Oversized clothes, moody lighting, and expressive body language became trademarks that fans immediately recognized. Billie was no longer just a teenage singer; she was crafting a fully realized artistic identity that extended beyond her voice.