Elle Varner joins Can We Talk R&B to share her musical journey, starting with her parents' influence in R&B. Elle reflects on her musical education, including her time at NYU’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, and how her 2012 debut propelled her into stardom. She opens up about the shifts in the music industry, her time away from the scene, and her powerful return as an independent artist.
Elle also discusses her latest single, "Fallen Up," and the newfound freedom she feels in her music, along with the hunger to break through even further in her career. She shares her passion for mentoring new talent and guiding the next generation of artists.
In a candid moment, Elle talks about the emotional loss of her father and former manager, revealing how these profound experiences have deeply influenced both her personal and professional growth.
✅ LISTEN, FOLLOW, AND RATE
🎙️ Hosted & Created by: Ian Von
🚀 Produced & Shot by: Launch Pod Studio
🎥 Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios
📲 Presented by: Revolt Podcast Network
00:00:00: Intro
00:02:01: Introducing Special Guest Elle Varner
00:02:50: Elle Varner's Background and Early Influences
00:04:09: Growing Up in the R&B Scene
00:06:02: Early Music Experiences and Talent Shows
00:08:48: Quaker Influence and Civil Rights Activism in Family
00:11:01: Transition from LA to East Coast Influence
00:12:01: Developing Her Own Music
00:13:27: Fusion of R&B and Jazz Influences
00:15:08: Guitar Playing Style and Musical Technique
00:16:28: Understanding the Special Element of Melody
00:16:53: Aspiring Artist and Family Influence
00:17:14: Starting to Record Music
00:18:18: First Experience as a Session Writer
00:19:13: The Art of Background Singing
00:19:57: Learning to Let the Song Fly
00:20:28: College Experience at NYU
00:22:02: Transition to Production and Engineering
00:24:27: Early Songwriting and Performance Experiences
00:25:09: Overcoming Industry Challenges
00:26:13: Releasing the First Album
00:29:43: Perseverance and Manifesting Success
00:30:16: Working with Linda Perry and Continuing to Prove Oneself
00:31:38: Changes in the Music Industry
00:33:43: Release of New Song "Falling Up" and Upholding Artistic Integrity
00:35:36: Admiration for Kanye and Artists' Personal Lives
00:37:03: Separating Art from the Artist
00:39:01: Hope for a Future of Grace and Equality
00:41:07: Challenges Faced by Black Women in the Industry
00:42:27: Jason, a Mutual Friend and Manager – Memories and Impact
00:48:01: El Varner as a Mentor and Inspiration
00:50:39: Importance of Clear Questions and Mentorship
00:52:00: Deep Dive: The Story Behind the Single "Refill"
00:54:17: Discussion on current inspiring R&B artists
00:55:39: Decades and their influence on R&B
00:56:39: Mount Rushmore of female R&B singers
00:58:02: Future music plans and upcoming releases
00:59:12: Introduction to the 212 label
01:01:27: Plans for signing and managing new artists
01:02:25: Closing remarks and gratitude toward the team
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