ELLEVN
NEW RELEASE
TOXIC
Born Amrit Singh Sagoo in Edmonton, Canada, Ellevn has been notably carving his path as a recording artist, producer, and entrepreneur
With the release of his new single TOXIC releasing Friday 9th March 2018
watch the video here
ELLEVN 1-2-1 interview
1. The journey until now in the industry has it been difficult? Can you sum up your experience?
The journey is what I love the most about the industry. It hasn’t been easy but I wouldn’t have it any other way. The industry is like a roller coaster and you just have to figure out how to ride it. I was fortunate enough to receive support and collaborations from well established artists in the music world which helped me define my sound. The biggest struggle for me was rejecting a couple label deals that were quite significant, but with today’s platforms and the accessibility of an online audience, I felt like it was in my best interest to stay independent and maintain my creative control and freedom. Not to say I wouldn’t sign with a label in the future, but the terms need to make sense for me as an artist. The experience all-in-all is like backpacking through the amazon, it’s beautiful but you have to watch every step.
2. What was that particular inspiration that led you to become a singer?
Music makes me content. From an early age, music is what made me stop counting time. Growing up, my father was into Bollywood music and he was a fanatic. He had boxes full of cassettes so I feel like there was some inspiration from his love of music. Although he was into Bollywood music, my soul fell in-love with Rap and R&B music.
3. How did your collaboration with Curtis come about?
I was out in Los Angeles shooting a music video and the videographer had introduced me to Curtis. We ended up being homies and he is truly like a brother to me in all aspects of life.
4. What was it like working with Curtis?
Working with Curtis was totally different than my previous experiences. He is super meticulous and he definitely kicked my ass in the studio. We would start working at noon and stay up until 8 am the next day just working. He is definitely his father’s son when it comes to producing and the level of detail.
5. As an artist many writers must come to you with songs, how do you decide which suited to you?
I write my own music so it really comes down to the production and concepts.
6. After reading your profile we can see you are very talented, what other languages can you sing in?
English is definitely my main language I can rap or sing in. I do know how to speak Punjabi, I may experiment with some sounds in the future. I like implementing the Indian and Punjabi sounds in the production.
7. How would you say the Asian music industry differs from the main stream industry?
The Asian music industry is definitely a different cup of tea compared to the main stream industry. I feel like there is a set way of doing things in the Asian music industry and there are not that much deviations from the norm. If you listen closely and study music, you’ll see that the vibes in the main stream industry are continuously changing, there are new trends always coming in and the industry is always adapting to those. It is definitely a learning curve to balance the duality of the two industries, but I am using that as my strength to create new sounds.
8. Who is your favourite music producer you have worked with?
It’s hard for me to answer this question because each producer brings their own style and experience, so just being able to absorb and learn from that was a blessing.
9. Which music producer would you like to work with (both Asian & mainstream)
I would love to work with producers like Scott Storch, Metro Boomin, Mike WiLL and Swizz Beatz.
10. Who would you like to do a collaboration with from both Asian and mainstream – Male & Female?
Real Talk, my mind is going crazy with this question. I can think of so many names.
11. Do you have any further collaborations that you are currently working on?
I am currently working on multiple projects with Curtis, Panjabi MC, Dr. Zeus, just to name a few. I am also launching two other Canadian artists, so I have been spending time on their career as well.
12. What advice would you have for someone who wants to take steps to a career in the music industry
Honestly you just have to dive in, take the leap of faith and invest in yourself. Create your own sounds and don’t worry about what the person next to you is doing. Focus on you and do it for you.
13. Why do you think it is difficult for Asian artist’s to make their mark in the mainstream music industry?
It comes down to the work and music. Its 2018, if you make something dope enough, you can break through the wall. Although racism, social stigmas, and all that stuff play a big role, its part of the game and you just have to strategize.
14. Do you have any plans to hit the Bollywood film industry, if so can you share this with us?
Yes of course. I am currently executive producing a new movie that will include big names from Bollywood. I can’t reveal too much at the moment, you’ll have to stay tuned.
15. Which Bollywood star would you like to do a track for?
Its way too difficult to just say a few names because I can picture doing a track for multiple Bollywood stars with different vibes.
16. What is the highlight of your career so far?
The highlight of my career has been behind the scenes. Working with producers like Panjabi MC and Dr. Zeus was a moment of accomplishment because I grew up listening and looking up to these guys and now to be in a position where we are working alongside is something I am truly great for.
17. 2018, we will see some amazing track from you
You guys have to stay tuned. We have massive releases coming out that will speak for themselves.
