Elli Moore is the definition of a balancing act. As one half of the female production/writing duo LYRE, the singing voice of Barbie in all Barbie shows and movies, and the writer for songs featured on many commercials, MTV, CMT, Freeform, and Netflix, Moore somehow found time to release her debut single, “Gateway”.
The pop song, while relating a relationship to a gateway drug, is upbeat and vibrant, and the music video features Gabbie Hanna, Niki Demartino, and more. There is also an exclusive behind-the-scenes video that allows fans to get an inside look at the shooting process and Moore’s interactions with her friends and co-stars.
To celebrate the release of “Gateway”, I sat down with Elli Moore to get a better idea of what else she’s got in store for her fans.
Courtesy of Elli
Could you talk a little about the inspiration behind your single, “Gateway”?
It’s based on a very real story; running into someone you used to be, but are no longer close with is always an interesting experience. For some people, they can brush it off depending on how it ended, but in my situation specifically, it left me feeling like the obsession was starting all over again! Thus, “Gateway” was born.
What was it like working with so many artists in the “Gateway” music video?
It was amazing, and the support from my friends was unreal. They had never seen me in this setting before since I’m in a music production/ songwriting duo called LYRE with my best friend Alina Smith, so they usually see me in a very behind-the-scenes way.
Overall, how would you describe your genre of music to someone who has never heard it before?
Super pop, so if you like to dance in your bedroom, this is probably for you! (Because that’s what I do)
What would you say is your overall message in your music?
Do not do drugs. Just kidding, I would probably say my music so far has been about real-life things, and especially about relationships. Those can be really tough to navigate even when they are over.
When did you start creating music? Would you say your childhood or upbringing has influenced your style?
100%. My entire upbringing was centred around pop artists who aren’t afraid to have giant visions. I grew up loving the big pop acts of the ’90s + early 2000s; I just love high-energy, feel-good music.
How, if at all, has your musical style changed since when you first began?
I’ve always loved pop music. I’ve experimented in different genres, but ultimately I always came home to pop.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Hannah Montana probably. I always wanted to be her growing up.
What’s it like being a female in the music production industry?
I have definitely felt the presence of sexism in the production and songwriting side of the music industry in the past. Once, another producer even made a joke about LYRE’s work being so good that he was “looking for the man hiding under the production desk”. But recently, I feel like the industry is making big strides to equalize the playing field. Alina and I have been getting invited to more and more female-driven writing camps, not to mention the Grammy foundation starting a whole campaign to feature female producers and engineers. The divide still exists, and we have to work hard to counter it every day, but we’re excited for what’s to come in the future!
Has there ever been a time when you doubted pursuing a career in music? If so, what inspired you to keep going?
It’s funny you ask that; I’ve actually never thought I had a choice. I truly have been doing this for so long, that I don’t know what my life would look like without it, so it’s never crossed my mind as an option!
What moment in your career so far has left you the most satisfied or proud?
My video has been playing on the big screen at Universal City Walk Hollywood and that has been super rewarding, because during my first trip to LA when I was maybe 11, I danced under that screen and told myself one day I would be up there. I can’t stop smiling about it; it’s such a huge moment in my journey.
Courtesy of Elli
On the other hand, what has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to do or obstacle you’ve had to overcome in the music industry?
Just like everyone, I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs, but I feel like the biggest obstacle is the industry itself: staying afloat and inspired is tough to do when it feels like the process is taking a while, but you just have to trust that this is what you are meant to do and keep your eye on the prize.
If you could give young aspiring artists one piece of advice, what would it be?
Live your life to the fullest, write your feelings/stories, anything that comes from the heart comes across.
Any last thoughts?
Life is short, eat dessert first!
You can find Elli on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
Feature Image courtesy of Elli Moore.
