A voice as warm and smooth as a sip of bourbon, Sheva Elliot emulates a sound inspired by legendary singers like Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin and Patti Smith to name just a few.
The LA born and raised artist just released her single “Lost and Found” – a song in which she reflects a time in her life that she felt out of control. We all long for a real kind of love that carries us through tough times and Sheva found the words to express this deeply human state of heart.
We got to chat with her about her single and the inspirations that inform her retro artistry.
Sheva, congrats on “Lost and Found”. This song has all it takes to win a blues lover like myself over. Tell us a bit about the backstory and how this song was created, if you will.
Thank you! Lost & Found was written during a painful time in my life. Two people very close to me were in the grips of addiction & I was terrified. I can’t change anybody else, but I sure can write a song to ease the pain & make sense of a situation for myself. So I did.
Yes, that´s what music does for us! Your voice has a unique color and comforting warmth. Did you always know you wanted to be a singer? When did your journey into music begin and what were some milestones in your career so far?
That’s so sweet of you! Yes, I started singing when I was four years old. Music chose me. Milestones…definitely recording my first full length album.
Your sound evokes some nostalgic and also nurturing emotions. What is it about blues and rock n´roll that inspires you?
To me, blues, soul, and rock n’ roll encapsulates all facets of the human experience. These genres, which very much feed one another, are infused by raw, natural and wild emotion. There’s space for me to express myself and be imperfect.
When writing a song, what do you usually find the most challenging?
Self-judgment. I try to just get out of the way & let the song unfold.
“Lost and Found” is the third single off of your upcoming debut album. You recorded the tracks live to tape at Sonic Ranch Studios in El Paso. Tell us about that experience. Why did you chose to record it the old school way and how did the songs evolve in the studio?
My producer actually insisted we record it to tape, he felt it would honor my sound. The experience was a steep learning curve, I’m so grateful for it. Most of the songs were already written, but my producer helped me re-imagine certain intros. One of the songs was written after we already wrapped for the day & were just jamming.
In the first verse of “Lost and Found” you start the lyrics strong on “Could you remember me when I forget myself.” The song acknowledges that we sometimes need help from a trusted partner or friend. Sometimes we can´t do life (the right way) alone. What inspired the song for you?
Surrender.
Do you ever struggle with writer´s block and if so, do you have some tricks to surpass those?
Take a pause, be patient, knowing that inspiration & blockages are all par for the musical course.
Who are some of your most beloved musical influences?
Aretha Franklin, Donny Hathaway, Janis Joplin, Elton John, Stevie Nicks, Allman Brothers, Leonard Cohen, Led Zeppelin, Free, the list goes on and on.
What makes a song a good song to you?
Depends on what I’m looking for that day. I love a heavy drum, one that cuts through and drives the track. But also, I love a moody poem of a song. And of course, an emotive singer. The greats have taught me to growl or whisper and say everything I need to say without holding back.
Last not least, tell us a bit about what we can expect from the upcoming debut album? How many songs does it comprise and what are the overall topics?
9 songs! A friend observed that because the record covers an array of genres, each feels like a little short story or chapter. The topics range from heartbreak to empowerment, self-discovery & healing, to pure fantasy & fun.
Sounds intriguing! Thank you so much for this chat, Sheva! Lots of success and all the best to you!
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Follow Sheva online at:
Web: https://sheva-elliot.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2rKKXuyxemDxOqIQdoZXvG
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheva.elliot/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheva.elliot/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3WsHGuHg5sb7o_ITp07afw