Having received rave reviews from Billboard Pride and Them., Russel Elliot really is a “major pop moment.” He is starting “the f*ckboi purge” we’ve all been waiting for. Come one, come all and let Russell dominate your playlists this Pride.
Editor’s Note: I had a chance to attend Russell’s NYC Concert myself last week and it was downright incredible. My friends and I left invigorated and confident to live our best lives.
What is your songwriting process like?
Lyrics and melody come to me in a haze. It doesn’t matter what I’m doing or where I am, a feeling just comes over me and I know it’s time to write. I’ll sneak off to a private space or take a walk through the city whispering into the voice notes on my iPhone. That part of things usually happens quite fast. Then comes the refining, the producing, the arranging around those lyrics and melody. I’m very present for that part. It takes much longer. It can be frustrating. Disciplining my creativity in those moments where the work doesn’t come as easily is a work in progress.
What are some other artists you listen to that inspire some of your music?
I always return to artists like Lauryn Hill, Aaliyah, and Amy Winehouse for inspiration. I’m drawn to inimitable textures, unique swag, and lyrics that make you say, “Why didn’t I think of that?” Their music is a bottomless well for me. Some newer artists I’m really vibing with are Kehlani, Sakima, SZA, Moses Sumney, and YEBBA.
What’s your top experience of 2018 so far?
This past week comes to mind! I played two packed shows and heard a big crowd singing my lyrics back to me for the first time. That was pretty epic.
Can you describe your sound in one word?
Scrappy.
What is your favorite song you have written?
The next one (it’s always the next one).
https://www.instagram.com/p/BjuVkR3l4Bv/?hl=en&taken-by=_russellelliot_
Where do you hope to be by the end of 2018?
Still making things that matter with a few more tattoos and maybe an ear piercing. Or… at Trump’s impeachment party.
Check out Russell’s new EP Split Ends below and make sure you keep this legend on your radar!
Cover Image Courtesy of Michael Baca (left photo) and John Ellis (right photo)
