Songwriter Elyse Jewel On Music Inspirations And Newest Single “TBH IDK”

This young singer is climbing the charts!

At just 17 years-old, Elyse Jewel has amazed the music industry with her songwriting talents. She has even been a ‘John Lennon Songwriting Contest’ Winner Elyse Jewel.

We had the amazing honor of talking with Elyse about her music journey so far, mental health, and more!

When did you first realize that you wanted to pursue a career in music?

E: “Ever since I can remember I have wanted to be involved in music. My dad introduced me to the likes of Eric Clapton and The Beatles, and my aunt showed me musical theater and show tunes. These heavily influenced my ever-growing love for music. I used to put on shows for my family and make music videos with my friends until I was granted the opportunity to actually perform in front of real public crowds and make music videos for my own songs.”

Tell us about your amazing new single “TBH IDK”.

E: “I wrote this song at a time when I needed to escape from the reality that was getting played by someone I really liked. He led me on for months just to say “tbh idk” over text when I asked him what our relationship was to him. It was definitely disappointing, to say the least; however, I took what he said and made a song I hope everyone can relate to.”

What is your songwriting process usually like?

E: “I always start off with an idea based on a personal experience, usually to be about someone I have my eye on. From there, I mess around with a few lyric ideas and the melody just naturally follows. I tend to take these little snippets to the studio and work until my team and I create something absolutely magical.”

What was your reaction to becoming the John Lennon Songwriter of the Year?

E: “It was an absolutely amazing experience. As a young girl, I had always dreamed of being recognized for my music and the JLSC allowed that dream to come true. Having my first single “Thinking About You” win Pop Song of the Year was a mind-blowing moment for me because it let me know that people enjoyed my sound and what I had to say. Winning this contest allowed me to be fully confident in my abilities as a young female songwriter.”

Who would be some of your biggest musical inspirations and why?

E: “I absolutely love Taylor Swift and find her to be a major inspiration in my life. From her defiance of all gender roles and expectations as well as her genius songwriting, she is definitely my idol. I also take inspiration from Julia Michaels, who writes in the most creative ways. Her voice has significantly influenced me and showed me what true raw emotion sounds like in a song. I grew up on Eric Clapton and his music which always brings me back to positive memories about where I started in DIY music videos as a kid to where I am now as a working musician living my dream.”

If you were given the opportunity to tour, would you do it?

E: “Yes absolutely! The energy in the room when playing live is a feeling that is unreal, and though I am not yet touring, I have many great shows coming up that I will be sharing on my website and social media! I am so excited to be playing and connecting face-to-face with people and to share my new music!”

Can you give us any hints on what to expect in your upcoming project ‘Dear Diary’?

E: “Throughout the EP I tell a conceptual story of what my relationship with this guy was like and how it affected me. It shows the ups and downs of a true young romance that many people can relate to. Oh, and here’s a fun fact: It’s about the same guy “tbh idk” is about ;)”

Where can we follow your amazing journey?

E: “I am on all social media platforms under Elyse Jewel but all of my links are on my website https://www.elysejewel.com ! P.S. my music is out on all platforms :)”

You’ve mentioned that mental health is an important cause for which you are an advocate. If you could share your best practices on mental health fitness, what would they be and why?

E: “I have struggled with my own mental health for years and haven’t found an outlet that allows me to freely express myself better than music. Writing and singing out my feelings truly makes vocalizing my feelings to others so much easier. I have found that finding something that allows you to express your thoughts and feelings in a private but accessible way has truly allowed me to grow as a person. Not only this but taking time for self-care such as having alone time or even hanging out with friends can strengthen one’s mental health.”

You’re playing a sold-out stadium tour and they ask you to bring out a special guest for the last song. Who would that guest be and why? 

E: “I would have to invite Taylor Swift as I absolutely love her! She has been a major inspiration in my life, from her defying all expectations as well as her genius songwriting, she is definitely my idol and I would be absolutely honored to perform alongside her.”

Je’Kayla Crawford– Founder and Director– Je’Kayla has been a journalist for years and decided to start a publication of her own, New Scene. When not helping her team and working on the monthly issues, you can find her watching a movie on Netflix or baking using a viral Tasty recipe.