Every week, Entertainment South Wales regular feature – My Music DNA will shine a light on musicians, singers and people connected with the music industry and discover the songs that have inspired them on their musical journey. This week we feature Welsh-born recording artist – ELA.
Emerging singer-songwriter ELA is an experienced recording artist for TV drama and is now embarking on releasing her forthcoming E.P. ‘Unfurl’ to be released later in the year.
Each of the five songs are based on her own personal experiences and are about the challenges of becoming a young woman. New listeners may be surprised at the range of genres: from smoky jazzy chords to piano and voice ballad to a sassy number. The first single from the E.P. is the beautiful release ‘Our Summer’, out now!
ELA discusses her Music DNA with Andy Howells.
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
Hometown Glory by Adele – I was asked to perform a song for a Haiti charity fundraiser in 2010 and decided to sing this song as, without sounding cliche, it hit home for me. I remember being so nervous as it’s a big song, especially for a 15-year-old. But I did it and it is still one of my fondest memories in my singing career.
What was the first single you bought?
I’m pretty sure it was Sk8er Boi by Avril Lavigne. There was a lot of group headbanging and screaming of lyrics with the girls. Still know every word! Maybe I should do a cover?
What was the first album you owned?
Love. Angel. Music. Baby by Gwen Stafani – not sure I need to say much more apart from this album is what every teenage girl needs to listen to.
What’s your constant go to track?
Stronger Than Me – Amy Winehouse it just gives me a genuine kick; I love it so much. I doubt I’ll ever get bored of listening to it.
What’s your constant go to album?
Gangs, Signs & Prayer by Stormzy. This album hit me like no other. Honestly, every single track I could listen to over and over. There’s so many layers of depth and so many emotions. It’s art.
Who’s your latest music discovery?
This is a tricky one as the talent out there at the moment is insane. So many young women are producing such brilliant and innovative work. I think the likes of Billie Eillish have really inspired young women to be whoever they want to be and definitely pushed me to not fear fear.
However, I’d have to say that I am in love with BENEE at the moment. Every track she releases gives me such joy and they are great to sing along to.
What’s your own track that best defines you as an artist?
It has to be Our Summer as that’s the only song I’ve been able to share with you so far! Watch this space. I have 4 very different songs up my sleeve which I can’t wait to deliver and hear your thoughts on. They’re so different from one another and I’m so excited about them.