In this interview spotlight, I chat with Elise about her latest project, being Texifornian, technology, challenges and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)

I’m originally from Dallas, spent some time growing up in Los Angeles, returned to Dallas for college, and now am back in LA.  That was long-winded.  I guess I’m a Texifornian?  Regardless of genre, etc, I always gravitate toward moody baselines coupled against ethereal/floaty trebles.  Add honest lyrics (my thoughts tend to get “wordy” when I’m writing), and that probably hits the nail on the head!

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

Both of my parents are musicians (among other things), so I was heavily influenced by music from a young age.  I’ve been singing and performing since I was 9, and once I started writing my own lyrics as a teenager I was really hooked.  Writing music and lyrics is something that always gives back when I focus on it, no matter what; it always gives more life.  So every time I’m creating something new I get a great sense of fulfillment because it doesn’t feel like I’m completing a task or working toward an “end-goal”; it’s the beginning of creating something completely new that, until that point, literally didn’t exist previously.  It’s amazing to see how the art you make can move other people and make them feel a certain way- that impact is what motivates me most.

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

The only specific thing I was trying to accomplish was to tell the story honestly.  I never want to write words just to fill space or because they sound good on the surface.  I want to effectively achieve telling the story or relaying the underlying purpose/inspiration of the song.  Everyone is going to interpret messages differently since we all have different backgrounds and experiences, but I want the words coming out of my mouth to be honest.

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

In broad terms I think the challenge is one-in-the-same with the benefit.  Independent distribution is so accessible which leads to some of the oversaturation you’re talking about, which can become a challenge if your main focus is on increasing awareness of your particular music.  But also it’s that freedom that allows many of us to be in that position in the first place, so- I’ll take it!

What was the last song you listened to?

“Evergreen” by YEBBA.  I’ve had that on repeat for a minute now.  The song before that was “I Won’t Mind” by Raveena!

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

Vinyl on the weekends; CDs during the week!  It’s a lifestyle.  Truly though my go-to is MP3 because it’s most accessible, but I will always get excited about a CD (said the 90’s child..).  I do have a collection of 80’s vinyls and a vintage record player which was lovingly repaired for me; it’s one of my favorite things in my room.  Did I answer your question??  I think I just gave you three conflicting responses!

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?

Spotify!  It has been my go-to for many years and has gotten me and my coworkers through many “desk job” days in the past.  I love the curated playlists and the comprehensiveness of the overall layout.  I’m grateful to all streaming services for the platform to share my music, but I do have a personal loyalty to Spotify.

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

I’m most active on Instagram (@elise_kristiane)!  I can also be found at elisehoward.com, on Facebook as “Music By Elise,” and on iMDB as “Elise Howard”.

Anything else before we sign off?

To all of my LA people: come join us at Staples Center for a Clippers game!  I’ll be on the court as part of the Clippers “Hoop Troop” and would love to send a t-shirt your way!