Hey Elyse, So excited to be chatting with you! What inspired you to pursue your career in music?
Hey, thanks for having me! Ever since I was little, I always had a passion for music. I remember jumping on my bed and belting out to Taylor Swift. I would put on concerts for my parents and make little tickets for them to watch me. Throughout elementary school I begged my mom to put me in singing lessons, and finally, when I was nine, she decided to put me in them. Ever since then it’s just been me getting more serious about my music and wanting to pursue it as a job rather than a hobby.
Did you have a breakout song that started things for you?
I didn’t, I actually started my instagram page about four years ago and have just been building up my fan base since then. I’ve been lucky enough to gain a following and a platform to share what I love with other people.
Does your fan base have a name? and If so how did that name catch on?
They do not have a name yet; however, I’m hoping that one will catch on soon.
How do you want your relationship to be like with your supporters?
I want to have a close relationship with my supporters and I feel music connects all of us. When people listen to my songs I hope that I inspire them and that they feel connected to me even if they don’t personally know me. I want them to be able to think “hey, I’ve been in that situation” or “that’s how I feel” and know that they aren’t alone.
What type of music are you leaning towards for your music career?
Definitely pop music. Right now, my biggest musical influences are definitely Julia Micahels, Dua Lipa, and Zara Larson.
You recently released your first single “Thinking About You” and it has already gained a lot of attention from your fanbase, what was your thought on the reaction of the song?
I thought that it was crazy. I’m so thankful for everyone who’s supporting me and my music. It’s just so amazing that I’m being able to fulfill my dreams and share my dreams with other people.
Did you expect your first single to do this well?
Never in a million years did I expect my song to get as far as it’s gotten. I’m so grateful for the opportunities I’ve gotten that have enabled me to do what I love.
Can you tell us how this song came together?
I had a crush on this boy that I didn’t know very well and I was just hoping that something would happen with us. I did a co-write session with Shane Stevens and said I want to write a love song, and then we made Thinking About You.
Your first single was selected as a Grand Prize winner in the 2nd Session 2019 John Lennon Songwriter International Competition in the POP category and it is currently in the running for Song of the Year. What was it like receiving this amazing news? Did you gain anything from this huge accomplishment?
I was so happy and just mind blown. My mom told me and we just started jumping up and down screaming. We told all of my family, it was crazy. I was actually given equipment to make a home studio which I am so excited to use! Not only that, but just the recognition for the song and my art was amazing.
You also joined Kristin Chenoweth on her tour as an opening act! What was that experience like for you?
That was an unforgettable experience. A few other kids and I had rehearsal every week and we worked with a director, choreographer, and vocal instructor to put together a few musical theater numbers. We had costumes made and were able to do a Q&A with Kristin which was amazing. I learned so much about the industry and her journey throughout the entertainment world. She is such a sweet and caring person. I remember complimenting her dress and her telling me how she felt as though she ate too much the night before and we both just started laughing. During Kristin’s closing number, she invited us up to sing with her onstage and all of us, including Kristin, started crying during the song. It was such a powerful moment because you could just feel the love for each other and the arts throughout the auditorium.
Any other fun things in the works you can tell us about?
I’m currently working on my next single. Right now we’re getting it produced and coming up with concepts for the visuals!
Do you have any other talents other than singing?
I’m also an actress and pianist which I’ve been doing for a few years now. I also grew a love for baking recently. I’m trying to get better at it and hopefully bake homemade cakes that actually taste and look good.
Any last things you want to tell your supporters?
I just want to thank each and everyone of you for allowing me to do what I love and share it with you all. Remember that you guys are so special and to never stop fighting for your dreams because you will get there! I love you guys so much thank you!
Thank you for taking the time to do this interview with us 🙂
