Check out our interview with emerging Pop singer-songwriter, actress and musical theater productions performer Elyse Jewel.
Elyse found her passion for performance early in life and that energy drives an enthusiasm seen on and off stage. She has performed as a music artist at numerous venues in the Dallas, Texas area including The House of Blues, Gilley’s Dallas, The Gaylord of Texas and Six Flags Over Texas. She recently, performed in Kristin Chenoweth Tour.
Her first single, Thinking About You was selected as the Grand Prize winner in the 2nd Session 2019 John Lennon Songwriter International Competition in the POP category and it is currently in the running for Song of the Year.
Follow Elyse at @elysejewel
Hi Elyse, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a 15 year old pop singer-songwriter from Dallas, Texas. I grew up with music and decided that that’s what I needed to do. I started songwriting about two years ago and just released my first single called “Thinking About You.” In my free time I mainly watch Netflix and hang out with my friends. Right now my favorite TV show is That ‘70s show.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Positive, caring, and genuine. I like to stay positive and promote positivity because I think that it’s a really important thing we need to keep in our lives.
Who has made the biggest impact on your life so far, and why?
I would have to say my mom. My mom has been there through thick and thin with me. Sure we’ve had our ups and downs, but she’s always been so supportive and there my side.
How did you get started in the business?
Ever since I was little, I always had a passion for music. I remember jumping on my bed and belting out to Taylor Swift. I would put on concerts for my parents and make little tickets for them to watch me. I once even charged them 25 cents.
Throughout elementary school I begged my mom to put me in singing lessons. Finally, when I was nine, she decided to put me in them. Ever since then it’s just been me getting more serious about my music and wanting to pursue it as a career rather than a hobby.
Did you go to music school?
I currently attend public school and I love it there. I am in a Music Artist Development Program outside of school through Pogue Entertainment Group.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
I would say fun, confident and honest. I like to keep my lyrics honest and truly me. I pull from real life experiences. My music helps me verbalize what I’m feeling, so hopefully I can spread the message of the songs to others.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
I was influenced by a lot of different artists like Julia Michaels, Taylor Swift, and Sabrina Carpenter. Music is my outlet and how I express myself and emotions. It’s my passion and I want to be able to inspire other kids to just go for it and achieve their dreams.
Do you ever get nervous?
Oh for sure, all the time. Everytime I perform I get nervous. Over the years I’ve gotten less scared to get on stage but I just want to give the best performance I can give to the audience.
What is your next goal as a musician?
I want to keep putting out music and perform at more venues.
Now tell us about your hit single “Thinking About You?”
I had a crush on this boy that I didn’t know very well and I was just hoping that something would happen with us. I did a co-write session with Shane Stevens and said I want to write a love song, and then we made “Thinking About You”.
Where we can see you performing?
I’ve been performing in the Dallas Fort Worth Area. I’ve performed at The House of Blues, Gilley’s, Six Flags and Lava Cantina. All of my gigs will be on my social media and website so stay tuned for dates and places.
What is the feeling of being the winner of the Grand Prize in the 2nd Session 2019 John Lennon Songwriter International Competition?
It’s so crazy and so amazing! I’m honestly just so thankful for everyone who’s supported me and my music. I love that I’m being able to fulfill and share my dreams with other people.
What can we expect of Elyse Jewel in 2020?
Definitely more live shows and I have more singles in the works!
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car?
My Happy Ending by Avril Levine. That song was my childhood anthem believe it or not and my mom and I still belt that song while we’re in the car. .
Name one your strengths?
Determination because I push myself.
What is your own definition of happiness?
To be surrounded by love and acceptance.
Any loves other than music?
I act and play piano, which I’ve been doing for a few years now. I also grew a love for baking recently. I’m trying to get better at it and hopefully bake homemade cakes that actually taste and look good.
Any exciting news you want to share with us?
I’m currently working on my next single. Right now we’re getting it produced and coming up with concepts for the visuals!
How’s a typical day in your life?
I wake up for school around 6:30 am and get home around 3 pm. I eat a snack, chill out and watch Netflix for about and hour then do homework. When that’s all done I practice music for a few hours. Usually I practice for an upcoming gig and technique for piano and voice.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
I would say going out with my friends and just having a fun, relaxing day.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I could never go wrong with a caesar salad. That’s like my go-to meal.
And your favorite cheat food?
Definitely, cake or Doritos.
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
If they’re disrespectful or rude.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would want to meet Taylor Swift and just talk to her about the music industry and everything she’s been through in her life. I think that she could give really good advice to me.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see myself on a big stage, performing and meeting people from all around the world. I would be in the studio all the time making music.
How would you describe your fashion style?
I would say that it’s casual, classy, and trendy.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think that it’s a great way of connecting with people and expressing yourself.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Twitter @elysejewel
TikTok @Elyse.Jewel
You can also check out my website at Elysejewel.com which has all my music and social media links!
Quote: “If you can dream it, you can do it.” – Walt Disney
Song: Right now it’s “Talk Too Much” by COIN but it changes everyday
Movie: Beautiful Boy
Travel Destination: New York
Food: Caesar Salad
Sports Team: Dallas Stars