Elena Kristen Interview | Respect The Artist Interview
How did you get your Artist name?
I’ve always loved my middle name Kristen, so I decided to incorporate it with my first name Elena!
How did you get into creating?
I’ve always been creating, from a very young age. I started dance performing at 5 years old. When I was 7, the first time I created my first music cover was at Canada’s Wonderland recording studio, where I sang “I Turn To You” by Christina Aguilera. It was a magical experience when I brought the cassette tape home to my mom, who had no idea I could sing and had a God given voice. she was surprised and thrilled when I told her it was me.
Where are you from?
I was born in Toronto, Canada — I grew up in a small town in Aurora, Ontario. My nationality is Greek. I’m Spartan and Greek-Macedonian.
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
I started taking vocal training when I was 8. I spent 10 years of my childhood really focusing on my craft of singing, taking lessons and working closely with my vocal coaches. For the last few years I’ve also had my own music students — when I teach, I’m not only inspiring others to become better but it makes me want to be better too.
What does your current setup look like?
I don’t have one specific setup — I love to sing wherever the vibe feels right.
Who inspires you?: I’ve had many inspirations growing up, my idol is Mariah Carey. My mom told me she used to listen to her Daydream album in the 90’s when she was pregnant with me. So I’ve definitely been inspired and influenced even in the womb! Christina Aguilera, Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Kelly Clarkson, Chris Brown, are some of my top favourite artists I’ve always looked up to.
What is your goal when you create?
My ultimate goal when I create is to heal and inspire others to feel good and dream big. I put my heart and soul into my music and I want people to feel that. Honestly some of the outcomes I’ve had from my live performances specifically was making people cry. To have that ability to touch people’s lives and impact on such a deep level is the most fulfilling for me.
What's your go-to song right now?
My go-to song right now is Higher Love - Kygo & Whitney Houston Remix. I absolutely love 90’s music and I love how the retro vibes are coming back and trending right now.
What is your dream as an artist?
My dream as an artist is to inspire and empower people to believe in themselves, to go after their wildest dreams and to heal the world with my music.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream?
Believe in yourself. Everything you need is already inside of you. If you ever feel lost, go within. Fear is an illusion. You can achieve anything you set your mind to. The greatest rewards are given outside of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to dream big, shine bright and be authentically you, regardless of what anyone thinks.
Tell us about your most recent release
My most recent release was my George Floyd Tribute — Speechless cover by Naomi Scott. Honestly this wasn’t even planned, it was a topic I became very passionate about as soon as I found out what had happened to George Floyd. It was definitely an emotional song to put out but I’m glad I did it. Our voices need to be heard now more than ever. To me, the song represents unity. We are all one.
Check out Elena Kristen’s Speechless Cover
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