The Soul Behind the Song: Elena Rose and her new release “En Las Nubes con Mis Amigos”
Elena Rose is taking the Latin music world by storm. The Venezuelan singer-songwriter has captivated audiences with her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and unique blend of genres. Her latest EP, “En Las Nubes con Mis Amigos” (In the Clouds with My Friends), is a testament to her artistic growth and personal journey.
In this exclusive interview, Elena delves into the creative process behind the EP, shares personal stories behind her songs, and discusses her journey as an artist. She also opens up about her upcoming Latin Grammy nominations and her advice for aspiring musicians. Get ready to be inspired by Elena Rose’s passion, talent, and authenticity.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
How was the creative process behind “En Las Nubes, Con Mis Panas”?
I think the creative process for this album has been going on for my entire life.
The name expresses the feeling of always having this space in my heart that I created when I was very young. A safe space where I could be myself, where I could create, where I could talk to God, where I could listen to music. And then, I think when it says with my friends, it’s because it also puts a lot of attention on the fact that I know that I am who I am, because of the people that have loved me and that have believed in me.
And this project has a lot of that in a very organic way. Everything that we did with this, we were just going with the flow and with the gut feeling. And we wanted people to feel welcome in this space, to feel welcome in this little house that I did in the clouds, to be themselves, to also keep living life in a healthy and free way.
Is there a song that presented bigger challenges?
I think a very challenging song of this EP was “Me Lo Merezco” because at the beginning, I didn’t think it was going to be a song that people would want to hear from me or that would connect with. Because of the way that I am saying things, I think I was a little bit insecure about showing that part of me. I’m grateful I did because I also felt at the same time that gut feeling that God was telling me, yes, people need to hear this. The world needs this message. And I’m grateful I put it out without any expectation more than at least it is a song that impacted one person.
Which song or song from the EP has a more personal meaning for you and why? And was it because it represented a specific moment in your life?
Yeah, I think a personal song in this EP can be “Guatape“. It does have a story: I was in December in Medellin and I had a friend call us and tell us that he had to disconnect his brother who was very sick, who spent his entire life very sick.
It was Christmas, and he had to let his brother go and there was no money, there was no power, there was nothing that could stop that forced decision. And it’s a song that basically talks about letting things go, especially the ones that you can’t control. But it also hugs that feeling that I think is what I felt when he said it to me.
That immense love also sometimes comes with grief and a lot of pain. So it was very challenging for me to record this song, to do this arrangement, and also have Gracie on it. I think it was her energy as well that completed the song because it was very hard for me to sing it, and not be in pain. And I think her grace and amazing talent made the whole song completely elevate.
How do you think your sound and musical style has evolved from the younger Elena to Elena today?
I think it has evolved very intentionally. Every step that I take, I take it with a lot of intention; with a lot of joy and gratitude because I don’t have a clear knowledge of where I am going but I have a good feeling. And I just follow that, and I let myself grow and grow more. I love to learn; I love to be better every day.
But also, I’ve learned to hug myself and really love myself in the process. I just keep finding more ways of expressing my true self and protecting everything that comes with that. So yes, I wouldn’t change anything. I’m still learning, I’m still learning.
You have three nominations for the Latin Grammy’s. How are you preparing for this?
I am preparing in so many different ways: I think in a mental state, I am preparing to have fun. I feel so grateful. It’s a night that I think Venezuela is going to shine a lot. One of the nominations that I have, and the one that is most meaningful in this particular case, is a song that talks about my culture, about the place that I love so much, my roots. It’s a very personal feeling and I feel so grateful that the Academy is recognizing a song like that with all of these, you know, these “características”. And I’m just preparing with all my heart and soul.
If you could give one piece of advice to up-and-coming artists, what do you think would it be?
I would say, don’t be afraid, educate yourself on your artistry, because you have this immense knowledge that lives in you, that was given to you, that makes you unique, and that you have to dive into.
But also educate yourself on the business side, because that is going to save you a lot of money and problems. It’s okay to feel, it’s okay to feel the pressure, but don’t let it change you. And surround yourself with good people.
What is your daily beauty routine or beauty tips?
The snail. “ Baba de Caracol.” Everything Korean, skincare. Korean skincare. Korean skincare. Absolutely!
How do you choose your outfits for your concerts? Is there any concepts that you think you’re showing through your wardrobe?
I love to show freedom. I like to feel free when I am performing, but I also appreciate elegance and traditional patterns. And I want to mix both of them all the time. It’s like, how can I feel naked so I can be myself? But also, how can I be unforgettable and really enhance everything that is elegant and graceful about my music and me?
Which designers or fashion icons inspire you?
Mugler! Please, Mugler. Everything.
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor–in–Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Interview By: Frida Garcia D’Adda (@fridadda_)
Photographer: Bernardo García (@mr.bgarcia)
Public Relations: Bernardo Garcia (@bogapragency)
