Singer Elle Danielles newest R&B song “Did You?” is a song that delves into introspection and a resurgence of emotions, from the heartache she has experienced in the past It reflects on the feeling of being overlooked and underappreciated after going through a challenging “situationship.” The lyrics “Did you forget about me?” stem from a moment of detachment with someone in her history. Have expanded to encompass a reflection, on all relationships characterized by unreliability and lack of respect. Elle pours her emotions and insecurities into this song. Transforms them into a message of empowerment that showcases her resilience and self value. The track “Did You?” was created with the help of NOS and recorded at Frequency Music Studios, in Va Beach by Scott Medina; it mirrors Elle Danielles path, to rediscovering her voice and asserting herself through her expressions.
Elle Danielle was originally named LaToya Dixon and hails from Virginia; she is a R&B singer who also dabbles in writing, as a self published author and poet with a path that intertwines music and literature beautifully. Having graduated from Old Dominion University with a specialization in Music Production Elle initially inclined towards crafting songs and delivering captivating performances. However it was her exploration of poetry that truly allowed her authentic voice to shine through captivating audiences not during campus mic nights but also in various other settings, beyond the university walls.
Elle Danielle let’s delve into your journey as a performer and recording artist. You’ve shown
significant improvement lately—what factors do you attribute to your progress?
The number one factor is life experience. Although life doesn’t always give you the best experiences, I
am still blessed and appreciative to have gone through those times as it has led me into my creative spaces and to not only re-evaluate and learn from those experiences but also to share stories in a way
that others who may have gone through similar experiences can relate to.Second would be support, not only do I have a great recording and sound engineer that I work with
(Scott Medina), but he is also the founder of a music studio group called Frequency Music that I am a
member of. It supports and uplifts new and upcoming artists from community meet-ups to music
festivals, artist development, sound recording, videography, photography, etc.And most importantly, the support from the people who have acknowledged, celebrated, and
encouraged my music, whether it be a handful of fans or an arena full of fans. Just knowing that
you’ve touched or inspired someone with your music and creativity gives you the ammunition to keep
progressing. Every time I gain a new listener I think to myself, “I have to keep going”.
What was the concept behind the track ‘Did You?’
The concept behind the track stemmed from past relationships/ situationships. I remember talking to a guy once, we were in the initial stages of getting to know each other and as
time went on he became increasingly busy. He had shows and music and things to tend to so, I didn’t
hear from him as much, I understood but at the same time it was like, “Well what about me?”. Lol, so
when I finally did hear from him, I remember saying to him, “I thought you forgot about me”.
Eventually, we lost communication which led me back into writing music, and as I was writing ‘Did
You’ the first line “Did you forget about me” stemmed from that conversation. Then as I continued to
write the song, it became more about all of my past relationships and encounters.
How did you expand your vocal range?
I actually started working with a vocal coach who is helping me discover new methods to warm up and
expand my vocal range.
Who or what inspires you?
I grew up in the Brandy, Monica era which was one of my biggest inspirations as a child. As I grew
older, I became more introverted and kept my talents to myself mostly.It wasn’t until my young adulthood that I realized that I wanted more and became inspired by poetry,
but I did end up giving poetry and music a break. I wasn’t quite sure then how to get into the industry.
There weren’t as many resources as there are now.My most recent venture back into music was inspired by life, I felt like it changed dramatically for me;
relationships weren’t working out, the people I was close to and would hang with were no longer in my
life, I felt isolated- and that’s when I drew back into my creative spaces.
What is your dream collaboration?
My dream collaboration would be with Toni Braxton, she made it popular for women with deeper
singing voices.
Where do you envision “Elle Danielle” in five years?
In five years I would like to have two/three albums complete, performing on big stages, publishing
another book, collaborating with other artists and songwriters, and building my brand, maybe even
writing a movie script.
When I say ‘Elle Danielle’, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
A fighter, never taking no for an answer, and finding her way.
Many people today argue that RnB music has lost its integrity.How do you respond to criticism, and what steps are you taking to counter it?
I think that R&B has evolved into what it is today because we as people, and as artists have evolved.
Times change and everything including music has to keep up with the times. I don’t think any genre of
music is the same as it used to be 15-20 years ago, people are more outspoken and express
themselves differently and more openly. Doesn’t mean it’s right or wrong, it’s an artistic choice.In my music, I try to keep it respectful and keep the profanity to a minimum but, without diminishing
what I need to say creativity.
Do you have a particular music of yours that you love or that makes you feel something more
than others?
I have a song that I actually just wrote called, “For You” and it gives me that feeling of just driving on
the highway at night with the windows down, during the summer just me and the song, vibing. Lol.
What words of wisdom would you share with aspiring musicians and young people who have
big dreams?
To keep going for what you want. Understand that everyone is going to have their own opinions but
the only thing that matters is what you feel in your heart and soul. Everything gets better with time if
you keep believing in yourself.
