Up and Comers: Elliott Holden
Print Music Editor Bridie Adams talks to singer Elliott Holden about the music he posts on social media in the first of a series of interviews with undiscovered artists.
Social media is a great way for artists to gain publicity and platforms like YouTube and Instagram can be really beneficial for musicians who want to get their work out there. When it comes to up and coming artists on social media, Elliott Holden is worth a mention. The quality of Elliott’s content on Instagram and YouTube is consistently high and he deserves way more love on both platforms! I asked Elliott about his music to find out more about his work, influences and where he’s planning to take his social media content next.
I’ve really been enjoying the work you’ve been putting out recently, especially your Casio Series. Can you tell me more about that and what you’re planning next?
Elliott Holden: The Casio Series is just something I made up, as I have a Casio piano. Just something to pass the time during lockdown. I’m using the red filter on Insta to record them (not sure of the proper name for the filter), being influenced by The Weeknd’s new album and the colour scheme. I think he’s got that down to a tee, so yeah, just taking requests from followers and trying my best to do them. I like putting my own twist on some of the songs as well, writing my own lyrics and that. I’m trying to find time to make my own home studio at the minute but saving up for it is hard. As soon as that is done some original music should be getting made, fingers crossed.
How are you going to create that original content? What kind of vibe will you be going for?
Holden: When I write a song I usually do it on the piano but can vision other elements in it as well. I think if you can create something special with just your voice and a single instrument then you’re off to a good start! I’m really into The Weeknd and Post Malone type vibes but then I’m into the whole acoustic, simplistic, stripped back style of music like Dermot Kennedy and Rhys Lewis.
if you can create something special with just your voice and a single instrument then you’re off to a good start!
Do you have any other key influences?
Holden: My top 5 influences would probably be Post Malone, The Weeknd, Chris Brown, Ed Sheeran and Kehlani. There’s too many to name.
Where are you planning on going with your music in the long term? Are you aspiring for a career in music or just enjoying posting on social media for fun?
Holden: As soon as the studio is sorted, I plan on putting some songs on Spotify but until then it’ll be small vids just to keep things ticking along.
Be sure to check out Elliott Holden on Instagram (@elliottholdenmusic_) and YouTube.