#BlackExcellence365 Spotlight: ELHAE
Hey Tumblr, we’re back with another #BlackExcellence365 spotlight. This time we’re focusing on incredible musical artist @elhae. Elhae is a North-Dakota born and Georgia-raised artist who strives to create ambitious music with show-stopping vocals. We sat down with to talk about his new album Trouble in Paradise and how the Black experience influenced him.
How has North Dakota and Georgia influenced musical style that captures the essence of the Black experience?
I was only born in North Dakota. I don’t have any type of recollection of it, to be honest. I was raised here in Georgia. I think Atlanta would be considered the mecca of black music. I feel like Atlanta has been, especially in the last like 5 years, looked at as a place to find inspiration. It’s beautiful to be able to have these experiences with Black culture and really just enjoy where I’m from.
How does your new visual of “Hennessy” capture the essence of culture in Cuba and your music?
When we first created “Hennessy” I knew what we were doing was kind of different of what I’m normally known for as far as my music background and what people know me for. I really appreciate Latin drums and the style of Spanish driven music and “Hennessy” kind of blends the two. To be able to show Cuba in a light that is beautiful. It’s a beautiful country and there are different areas that you just have to see. I tried my best to show that in the video and in the music to pay homage to the country and the beauty of it.
What are you hoping people take away from your new album, Trouble In Paradise?
What I wanted to do with Trouble In Paradise was to help bring concept albums back and more thought-provoking ways of making music. I wanted to create great music and tell a story; to try to connect with people on a deeper level that goes beyond the music. Everything that I do is based on my experiences and sharing my vulnerability and transparency which always allows me to connect with people in a different way. It’s why I’ve been able to connect with my fans. I want people to know that when they listen to the project that there are creators out here that are actually trying to push, or trying to take it further, and not just settling. I want them to think, “Okay, he didn’t settle. He tried to do something a little bit outside of the box.” And if I can do that and have that kind of a persona and idea about me, then that’s great.
If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?
I don’t know it’s kind of hard and tough to think about it. I went to school for music and audio production…so I’m pretty sure I would be doing something dealing with sound. I’m just a lover of sonics. So probably something that has to do with mixing, or sound engineering, or something of that nature.
Thank you for sharing your story ELHAE. We’re excited about your journey and wish you the best with your new project, Trouble In Paradise. Tumblr, you can—and should—stream it here.
This interview has been condensed for clarity.
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