Ela Taubert: Colombian Star Shines with “Por Qué Soy Así” and Latin Grammy Nod
In a dazzling blend of infectious rhythm and raw emotion, Colombian musician Ela
Taubert has captivated the global stage with her breakout hit “Por Qué Soy Así,”
earning her a prestigious Latin Grammy nomination. Hailing from the vibrant streets
of Bogotá, Taubert infuses her music with the spirited essence of her Colombian
roots, creating a sound that is both timeless and fiercely contemporary.
Her signature pink hair and rock-alternative style have become emblematic of her artistic rebellion and authenticity, setting her apart in a sea of conformity. As she continues to break boundaries and redefine the genre, Taubert stands poised at the forefront of Latin music’s dynamic evolution, a true testament to the power of individuality and cultural pride.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
How does it feel to be recognized by the Latin Grammy Awards as a newcomer in the music industry?
These have been some of the best news I’ve ever received. I feel infinitely grateful and blessed for this nomination; since I was little, I dreamed of one day being at the Grammys!! And it’s such a huge joy to know that dream is a reality!! Especially in a category where artists I love and admire have been! I feel so honored and grateful.
Can you share the story behind your debut album /project that led to this nomination? What themes or messages are you hoping to convey through your music?
Every song we’ve written has always come from the heart, pouring out every memory and feeling from moments I’ve experienced throughout my life, especially this last year and a half. And the most beautiful part of that process is continuing to learn from it and sending the message of self-love, empowerment, love, heartbreak, joy, vulnerability… sending that message that we’re not alone in feeling the way we do. I want everyone to find a refuge in my songs and know they have a best friend here who understands them.
As a Colombian artist, how has your cultural background influenced your sound and artistic identity?
Colombia is a country rich in art and music! I grew up listening to Colombian artists
like Karol G, Morat, Juanes, and Shakira, who inspired me to dream and pursue my
goals fearlessly. They’ve also helped me spread the joy that defines Colombians to
different parts of the world. I grew up in Bogotá, where limitless dreams were born,
and it’s the hometown of artists I admire, like Morat. Bogotá has a unique magic; I
love every corner of my city, and it has inspired me to write about all my experiences
there. My city encouraged me to discover myself within this dream and to follow my
heart, just like the artists I admire so much.
Who are some of your biggest musical inspirations, and how have they shaped your approach to creating music?
In my household, we are passionate about music; I remember listening to all kinds of genres during my childhood! Artists like Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Adele inspired me to write my first songs and helped me find the perfect words to tell my stories in the most unique and detailed way possible. That’s how my love for writing my own songs and sharing my stories began.
What was the creative process like for you while working on the music that garnered this nomination? Were there any particular challenges you faced?
The songs we’ve written over the past two years are the most special and honest I’ve
ever made. After our first EP, “¿Y Si Eras Tú?” was born, marking a new musical era
for me that has me incredibly happy and excited; I’ve never felt more like myself in
my life. I was able to revisit places, memories, and moments from my life from a
healthier place and talk about them. It has been a really fun creative process with
people I love and admire so much!!! I think the biggest challenge in this process has
been maintaining the discipline to write and keeping the line of what we’ve built,
even as time becomes more scarce. It’s always a challenge to manage the pressure!
Can you tell us about a memorable moment or experience you had while performing live on your “Metamorphosis Tour” across Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Chile and Argentina?
Wow, everything is so memorable! I never imagined our first tour would be this incredible. I was extremely nervous, but the most special memory I’ll take from all the countries we visited is hearing the songs sung by the fans! It’s one thing to sing the songs ourselves at home, but it’s a completely different experience to see them singing along and to hear each song in their voices. Additionally, in every country, they surprised us: some held up signs, while others formed their country’s flag with their phone lights… They always made us feel welcomed and loved. I would love to return to each country again!
How do you feel about the current state of the Latin music scene, and what do you feel you are doing that is disrupting this genre?
I believe music is now having a beautiful moment where there’s space for all musical genres. It excites me to think that now every genre can shine and reach around the world! I feel the pressure to conform to a specific genre has decreased, and that freedom to create and be genuine and honest with your art and your fans has increased. I feel that has also been our guiding principle, to follow our hearts and ensure that every song we make is 100% honest musically and lyrically, and feels completely real, so that when people listen to the songs, they enter the universe we’ve created.
What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?
I would love to give a thousand pieces of advice!! But I would tell her never to give up, that even when life gets a little tough, it’s worth fighting for their dreams and goals. I would also tell her to take great care of her heart. And if I have the chance I would also thank her for so much, and for caring for the family with so much love, that is the most important thing.
How do you see your music evolving in the future? Are there any new directions or collaborations you’re excited about?
I always say “never say never” because I feel you can have a clear idea and in a month it can change completely. But I’m excited about what’s coming in 2025; a stage and a new era I’ve dreamed of for a long time is approaching, and I’m thrilled to share it with the world soon! What I can share without spoiling the surprise is that everything will continue to be full of butterflies!
What lyric from your latest single hits closest to your heart?
Wow, this question is really challenging! The one that hurts me the most and that I love the most at the same time is, “I saw the signs and didn’t want to leave.” It’s not always easy to admit to yourself you made a mistake.
What is next for you and who are you thanking when you win your Grammy?
I hope to share more new music and exciting surprises very soon! OMG, if we won
the Grammy, I would thank God, my mom, my family, my partner Kevin, my amazing
team, and of course… my fans. Ultimately, it’s all about them, so I would dedicate this
honor to them. Just thinking about it makes me nervous and brings tears to my eyes!
I can’t wait for that day to come!
TEAM CREDITS:
Interview By Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Cover Art Design: Carlos Graciano (@sadpapi666)
Photographer: María Julia (@itsmariajuliah)
Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: Raiza Montes (@raizzazz)
Wardrobe Stylist: Daniela Gutiérrez (@danielagtzgzz)
Wardrobe: Devol Studio (@devol_studio), Mod Wave Movement (@modwavemovement), Visori Studio (@visori__studio), Jnorig (@jnorig)
Public Relations Agency: Imagine Media
