[PREMIERE] Model Lindsey Kevitch a.k.a. El Rae Releases ‘Ride’
Model Lindsey Kevitch has been in magazines all the way from Maxim to Playboy, and has even been photographed by the infamous Terry Richardson. She’s one of the most famous models on Instagram with over 175,000 followers to date.
But there’s something about her you don’t know: she’s also a singer. In fact, music actually isn’t new territory for her, she wanted to be a singer before she became a model.
Like most of us, Lindsey has another side to her — and hers is a musical inner songstress called El Rae, after her middle name. And while she’s embraced that her looks are well above average, she wants to be known for more than just her bodacious bod and curves.
El Rae comes to us with a newly released exclusive track via Soundcloud called “Ride,” a dark and sexy track that throws at you the perfect mix of hip hop vibes and pop sonic waves.
Check out the cool new track and then read our Q&A with El Rae below!
Everyone knows you from being a successful bikini model – what made you decide to depart from that career and move into music?
Well, I’ve always been singing. My main goal has always been to become a singer but when the modeling and instagram stuff started happening, I just rolled with it never really taking it seriously. It was entertaining at first but became almost overwhelming when I started to be only looked at for my boobs and looks. My biggest pet peeve was to not be taken seriously or having people assume I was just another LA insta model. After awhile I started despising that whole industry because I felt more like a prop where I wanted to walk in a room and be respected for my talent or even given a chance to prove I have talent other than taking a picture. I knew I had to kinda step away from that image and focus on my music.
How did you realize you could make music?
The funny thing is I don’t remember an age where I wasn’t singing, it’s kinda been a part of me since I was born in the least cheesiest way possible. I was always performing in plays, talent shows and these school of rock bands. I would even rush back from school to make songs on garageband in like middle school haha
What are some of your musical influences? If you were to describe your sound, like Cyndi Lauper meets Guitar metal, what would it be? If you were to tell someone about your music that hasn’t heard it – how would you want it described?
I love combining different genres of music together or creating works of art that haven’t been done before. I feel like someone listening to my songs would say I’m a mesh between Lana Del Rey and the Weeknd. Some people say vocally I even sound like Norah Jones, but who knows! Honestly it’s so hard to characterize myself because I’m so many different elements combined in one, from the vocals to the beat to the overall mood.
What made you decide to go by El Rae instead of by Lindsey?
My nickname has been El Rae since I’ve been little. Rae is my middle name and instead of just using the letter L for Lindsey I decided to spell it out, El. It’s funny because obviously all my friends and fam know me as El Rae but when I changed it on instagram everyone was so confused. It’s important for me that people begin seeing me as El Rae, because it’s a step towards being seen as an artist not just Lindsey the bikini girl.
What is this song about and what inspired you to write it?
This song has such a specific vibe and energy to it. Lyrically, it’s pretty broad I think it’s more about the feel. I love anything dark and moody with a creepy feel and I feel like this portrays that perfectly. I wanted to create something that kind of takes your mind to a different place when listening to it and I feel like this track does that.
If you could choose only ONE song to cover, what song would it be and why?
This is so hard!! There’s so many I can’t just choose one. But when covering songs I always end up putting my own spin on it which I love because it becomes more unique.
Do you believe that every song is about something? Or do you think songwriters just write what sounds cool?
I think everyone has their own opinions when it comes to their music or others, so I think people should just create whatever makes them happy at the end of the day.
Do you feel there is pressure for female musicians to wear less and portray a very sexy image?
I actually think being sexy sometimes backfires, at least when you’re starting out. I think there are pros and cons to everything but I would rather be looked at for my talent or helped out because someone believes in me not just so they can hook up with me. I honestly think it’s sexier if you have a dope style and overall vibe then just walking out in no clothes.
Do you think it’s easier to be an artist in the day and age of digital music and spotify? Do you think it’s harder to connect with people in terms of getting the music out there?
The music industry has changed so much now with social media and streaming. Back in the day you needed to be signed. Now, you have way more control and access to things on your own. You can put your music out there and be heard instantly.
Do you have any advice for young women who are aspiring models or singers?
For any singer, we’re our own worst critic. I’m such a perfectionist, I make every excuse why I don’t want to put music out because I don’t think it’s good enough. I think my biggest advice is to try not to second guess yourself or be too critical about your work. Put stuff out, get yourself heard and do what you love.
When can we expect to hear a full album from you?
Hopefully soon! Working on stuff now.
Where can we find out more about you? Social media links?
INSTAGRAM: @elraexx
SOUNDCLOUD: soundcloud.com/elraexx
