Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Ryder
We got to chat with singer Eli Derby who has quickly solidified himself as one to watch in the industry, about creating genuine connections with his fans via TikTok, his single “Lately,” and his EP Left On Read, which is out now.
Did music play a large role in your life growing up?
My mom was a singer and my Dad was an actor so I grew up on 90s and 2000s R&B music. My grandfather is also a pastor so I grew up listening to church music and being involved there as well.
Prior to sharing original music, you used to post cover videos on YouTube. What initially motivated you to start sharing videos online?
I was posting covers online for fun when I first started, then my Dad told me I should take it seriously. I then searched “how to play guitar?” videos on Youtube, learned a few chords, teaching myself as I went, and would consistently post from that point on.
Since signing with LVRN how do you feel you have grown as an artist?
Since signing with LVRN, my voice has gotten deeper and more mature. I’m definitely more confident now than I’ve ever been, and in listening to my first songs… I can hear the growth in the music I’m dropping now, with the label.
Through TikTok, you often share BTS, POV videos, and covers. Has TikTok allowed you to have a more genuine connection with your listeners?
TikTok gives me a chance to engage with my audience on a more personal level. On this app you don’t have to pose as “cool” or have a certain aesthetic, so there’s definitely a genuine connection that I have with my followers, and my growth thus far has been organic.
6lack is featured on your recent single “Lately.” What was that collaborative process like?
Working with 6lack is dope, he’s such a talented human being. After I recorded my part on “Lately” I knew right away I wanted a feature for it, and his sound just fit the mood. So, I texted 6 and he was down immediately to hop on it! He sent back his verse and it was so satisfying to hear the way he flowed on the record.
“Lately” has a different feel from “Love Song” and “Gaslight.” Do you often try to experiment with your sound and style?
I try to experiment as much as possible with the R&B genre. I feel like a lot of R&B artists these days wanna stay inside a box, and I’m never afraid to step outside my comfort zone outside of that box.
Tell our readers about your EP Left On Read. What story are you telling through the EP?
The meaning behind my EP is about the display of my generation (Gen Z) and our lack of communication as a whole due to us having social media in the palm of our hands since we could walk. I feel as though a lot of us are afraid and perhaps a little anti-social to have in-person dialogues. Throughout my EP Left on Read, I discuss topics that I personally have been through such as gaslighting, being a hopeless romantic, heartbreak, trust, and honestly.. being left on read.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
Be consistent.