Today we’d like to introduce you to B. Elise.
Hi Elise, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I always wanted to do music. I can’t recall a moment when the realization just hit me. It was always there. My journey has been eventful, to say the least. I started off with poetry which a lot of people don’t know.
It seemed like the least nerve-wracking direction to start out with to combat my anxieties when dealing with the stage. I wanted to do music but couldn’t imagine performing in front of people. While I was doing poetry I also took formal acting training which helped me break out of my shell and eventually led me to gain more confidence to perform music.
I started establishing my music publishing company in 2016. I had to take time to learn a few things about the business before I felt comfortable dropping my first song, “Boomin”. My first single is different so people gravitated to it easily. It gives more of a sway-like Pop feel. It’s got me a lot of places. In my career. I was blessed to touch the stages of Hot97, Power 105, and much more.
My second single “LeBron” was released and has been featured on BET. I’ve also been published in XXL magazine twice. My acting and production work has landed me on a few LGBT platforms including NewYorkGirlsTv and Love and Lesbian NY.
I’ve also done production on the LGBT film “A Tale Of Love”. I co-directed and dealt with casting and camera work. Currently, I am wrapping up my second LGBT film called “The Perfect Scheme” dropping this fall along with co-starring in another LGBT film called “The Higher Spirit” currently streaming on several platforms.
Everything has been one opportunity from the next and such a blessed journey, truly.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Haha, no but nothing that’s really worth anything is, is it? There were and still are obstacles that I face but I embrace the challenges because I know they’ll only make me stronger and wiser in my field.
I’ve dealt with all types of things in this industry. Mainly the most overwhelming challenge is my mental health. Dealing with the industry is one thing but life has to be tended to as well.
So finding an easy balance has been difficult but I’m getting better nowadays. The key to that was truly doing for myself. Not so anyone can not say this or even say that but for me. For my true happiness. It’s getting better.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
New York City music artist B.Elise is a shining star in the big apple. She has reached several heights since her first appearance on the scene. Being featured on XXL, BET, The Hype magazine, and much more. She is also known in the LGBT community for her acting and production work.
She’s been featured on several LGBT platforms including NYGTV. She is currently a co-director with Ise Productions working on her second LGBT film “The Perfect Scheme” Her first release “BOOMIN” is still a fan favorite. The Music video was Shot by Brooklyn Native Haitian Picasso who has also worked with the likes of Sheff G, 22Gz, Nick Blixky, and many more.
The single is still buzzing and has created a growing audience for B. Her following single “LeBron” landed her video placement on the BET network, steering more eyes on her work. Big accomplishment for the Queen’s Native. Along with her reggae hit “Brown Sugar,” there’s no stopping this woman.
B.Elise has recently become a 2x Grant recipient. Obtaining the 2022 NYC Women’s Fund Grant, where only 89 out of 1,193 applications were awarded in the city. Along with the 2021 NYC City Artist Corp Grant. She has also been recognized by Senator Leroy Comrie for her participation and production efforts in the city for 2019 and 2020.
People quickly pick up that she is not your typical artist soon after tapping in with her. Her songs will make you look at her twice but never judge a book by its cover. She is definitely a vibe to get into. Make sure to check out her new single “Heartbreak Hotel”. Available everywhere!!!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Finding a genuine mentor can sometimes be tricky however it’s about placing yourself in the appropriate environment.
I always advise networking. It’s the most crucial part of this industry. It is true, sometimes it’s not what you know but who you know. I’ve created key opportunities for myself by just opening up my mouth.
Closed mouths don’t get fed! I’m not shy when it comes to walking into a room and working it! It’s key in the music industry or any industry for that matter.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.itsbelise.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/itsb.elise?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsb.elise/
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/itsbelise
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/BElise1
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/goMrX9xvax3ceG2bA
Image Credits
@caselcaptures and @caselcaptures