Meet Elsie Mae | Singer/Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elsie Mae and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elsie, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
This is such a great question! I remember my mom telling me something last year that my grandmother used to say to her growing up and it’s really stuck with me. She always said “Never be afraid to embarrass yourself.” It’s so simple, but something I use to remind myself as an independent artist where almost everything is trial and error. I think true artistry comes from being your most authentic self and taking risks. That can be a really difficult task if you’re worrying about how you might be perceived by others. As a songwriter, I always try to keep it real and be as honest with my music as possible. I write from personal experience and most of my music comes from a pretty vulnerable place. It can be terrify to know that the world has access to all of my thoughts, but instead of embarrassment, I’ve found that its allowed me to connect with others who may be going through similar experiences and help them feel a little less alone.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I first started writing songs, it wasn’t because I dreamt of pursuing it professionally. I used to struggle a lot with my mental health, and navigating my thoughts and feelings felt almost impossible unless I was sitting at the piano and singing about it. In those moments, I never really knew how I was feeling until I read the lyrics back after finishing a song.

I get asked a lot why almost all of my music leans toward the sad side, and that’s why. I write when I’m going through it because I’ve found that it’s a really therapeutic process.

When I finally started releasing my own songs and people began reaching out to say that my music had helped them, I realized I wanted to build a career around it. I love the idea of turning difficult situations into songs that help others heal and feel less alone. Being an artist allows me to do that. I write for my listeners, but I also write for me. I just never imagined I could do both at the same time. I’m really excited to keep sharing my story and creating music that hopefully makes people feel more seen.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m fairly new to Nashville, so I’m still exploring the city myself! I’ve never lived in a place where there’s always something fun going on and I think that’s what I love the most about living here. I think for anyone visiting, at least one night downtown is a must. Other than that, I love watching writers rounds and I don’t think that’s something every city has to offer so we’re definitely hitting up Live Oak or The Listening Room for that. If it’s Tuesday, we’re heading to Dos Santos for the best half price tacos you’ll ever have and a margarita flight. Then probably heading east and finishing the night off with some Karaoke at Low Bar.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I really could go on and on about the endless support from my family and friends back home. I have an amazing group of people behind me and I’m beyond grateful for that. I definitely owe a lot to my older brother Andy who has played such a huge roll in helping me grow to where I’m at as an artist. He’s one of the most artistic and creative people I’ve ever met and it’s truly inspiring. He’s the reason I started playing piano, and used to give me lessons when we were kids. The first guitar I learned to play was the one he gave me when he moved away from home. When I decided I wanted to record my first song, he was my producer. When I decided to release it and needed cover art, he was my photographer/editor. When I called him out of the blue saying I wanted to make a music video, but didn’t know where to start, he found equipment to rent and said he’d be my videographer. He’s been there every step of the way and has played every role in the book, but I think he plays “older brother” the best.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elsiemaekay?igsh=d3BteG9vbHh6d2Vh&utm_source=qr

Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCs3tR4AGijNVGf_X1uFxPPw

Other: Tik Tok:

@elsiemaekay

Spotify:

Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/elsie-mae/1296882

Image Credits
Cole Plichta
Matthew Gold