Review Fix Exclusive: Elise Talks ‘Few Words’ And More

Review Fix chats with singer/songwriter Elise, who discusses her creative process, goals and origin in music, as well as her new single, “Few Words.”

About Elise:

Elise is ready to show the world her sultry vocal prowess on debut single, “Few Words.” The Texas-born actor, singer, and songwriter began acting at only five years old, making the jump to Los Angeles to pursue her dream at twelve. Her time in the city of angels garnered her a serious resume of experience, including appearances on the Disney Channel, educational sit-ins on studio sessions for Dreamgirls and with artists like Anita Baker, and numerous independent films and charity performances. It was during her college years at Texas Christian University that the musician began experimenting with songwriting, pouring herself into the educational journey and eventually returning to Los Angeles with a renewed focus on her music career. Since then, she’s worked for the Los Angeles Clippers Hoop Troop and spends her days in the studio hard at work on her debut project. 

The first single off her debut project, “Few Words,” is a sultry, deep grooving R&B track. With hints of neo-soul and contemporary pop, the single is an introspective take on the difficulties, and rewards, of a long distant relationship. Elise’s lingering alto is a cool breeze as it sweeps across the pulsating melody with fresh, cosmic energy. The vocals-forward track is all chill vibes and cool cadence. The bumping bass and harmonic layers create a sonic experience that evokes a sense of hopefulness and nostalgic aspirations in regards to how two people can grow with each other rather than away from one another. On “Few Words,” Elise’s alluring tone and honed soulfulness command the track, making for a truly unforgettable musical introduction.

Review Fix: How was “Few Words” written?

Elise: I’ve known my producer on this song for over 10 years now, so the process was very free- flowing and collaborative between the two of us. We recorded and produced “Few Words” solely in his studio, Auraltech Sound Lab. Craig sent me four bars or so (which can be heard at the very beginning of the song) on loop, and I loved the initial mood so much I began writing lyrics immediately! The next time I was in the studio I laid down vocals, and we built up the rest of the song together around the structure that the lyrics created.

Review Fix: What makes it special to you?

Elise: Long distance has played a pretty significant role in my life. The lyrics reflect the thoughts

in my own head before solidifying a decision with my partner before a move. It’s tricky because when you love someone on a level that is bigger than yourself, you want to support them in the way that’s best for them. I try to be the best person I can be, and I truly believe that good people attract good people, which can make it difficult when everything else is on-point but circumstance and timing are out of your control. So what’s the right decision- do you let go, or hold on tighter? That’s the crux of the song. I’ve learned there’s no real “right” or “wrong” way to go about it, as long as there is respect, understanding and selfless love. At the end of the day I think it comes back to one of my favorite quotes by John Steinbeck: ‘If it’s right, it happens- The main thing is not to hurry. Nothing good gets away.’

Review Fix: What makes you different?

Elise: The most apparent difference is my depth of register and the sultry tonality of my voice. I

also write my own lyrics and co-produce my music, so I’m very proud that the thoughts and feels are my own. There are so many talented people, but no one else could create my music and art in the same way.

Review Fix: What are your goals for 2019?

Elise: My goals for 2019 are to release another single, followed by an EP in the fall. I’d also love to release a music video along with one of my tracks (I’m already working with a team on it- more details to come soon)!

Review Fix: How does “Few Words” help make those goals accomplished ones?

Elise: “Few Words” is the first single release of my debut project! So we’re off to a good start.

Review Fix: How would you describe your sound to someone to you, who’s never heard you?

Elise: My music joins together aspects of Contemporary R&B, Soul, and Pop. I’ve always

gravitated toward the bass and rhythm sections in more classic R&B tracks, as well as the “floaty”/ethereal quality of more contemporary R&B styles. And I honestly can’t get away from the Soul, even if I wanted to! I think that will always be interwoven in my music because of my full lower register and the natural tonality of my voice. My favorite responses to my music are when people tell me it gave them chills, or describe my voice as ‘sultry’- that’s the best.

Review Fix: What’s the difference between your live work and that done in the studio?

Elise: My live work is more piano-heavy than my studio work, because piano is the instrument I’m

most comfortable on in front of a crowd. It’s also my go-to for initial writing. The work done in the studio is full-bodied, because my producer and I have a great way of communicating what the other one is hearing and where we want things to go musically. I write all the lyrics on my own tracks, because that’s very personal to me, and I’m thankful to have someone so talented to collaborate with on the composition side of things. Also, because I co-create the composition I sometimes prefer to use the production tracks in live spaces as well, because the creation of the studio music itself is part of the art!

Review Fix: What’s next?

Elise: I’ve got another single mastered and ready for release, and I’m excited to be in the studio consistently this upcoming summer, working to finish my EP. My goal is to release the full EP this fall!

Review Fix: Anything else you’d like to add?

Elise: I’m always writing for and collaborating with other artists on their projects (I love writing for others), and am continuing to audition for film roles in Los Angeles. I’m also on-court at Staples Center for almost every Clippers’ home game, as part of the Clippers Hoop Troop team! It’s an absolute blast- come say hi if you have a chance!