Elle Varner joins Can We Talk R&B to share her musical journey, starting with her parents' influence in R&B. Elle reflects on her musical education, including her time at NYU’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, and how her 2012 debut propelled her into stardom. She opens up about the shifts in the music industry, her time away from the scene, and her powerful return as an independent artist.

Elle also discusses her latest single, "Fallen Up," and the newfound freedom she feels in her music, along with the hunger to break through even further in her career. She shares her passion for mentoring new talent and guiding the next generation of artists.

In a candid moment, Elle talks about the emotional loss of her father and former manager, revealing how these profound experiences have deeply influenced both her personal and professional growth.

✅ LISTEN, FOLLOW, AND RATE

🎙️ Hosted & Created by: Ian Von

🚀 Produced & Shot by: Launch Pod Studio

🎥 Edited by: Lazy Pickle Studios

📲 Presented by: Revolt Podcast Network

00:00:00 : Intro

00:02:01 : Introducing Special Guest Elle Varner

00:02:50 : Elle Varner's Background and Early Influences

00:04:09 : Growing Up in the R&B Scene

00:06:02 : Early Music Experiences and Talent Shows

00:08:48 : Quaker Influence and Civil Rights Activism in Family

00:11:01 : Transition from LA to East Coast Influence

00:12:01 : Developing Her Own Music

00:13:27 : Fusion of R&B and Jazz Influences

00:15:08 : Guitar Playing Style and Musical Technique

00:16:28 : Understanding the Special Element of Melody

00:16:53 : Aspiring Artist and Family Influence

00:17:14 : Starting to Record Music

00:18:18 : First Experience as a Session Writer

00:19:13 : The Art of Background Singing

00:19:57 : Learning to Let the Song Fly

00:20:28 : College Experience at NYU

00:22:02 : Transition to Production and Engineering

00:24:27 : Early Songwriting and Performance Experiences

00:25:09 : Overcoming Industry Challenges

00:26:13 : Releasing the First Album

00:29:43 : Perseverance and Manifesting Success

00:30:16 : Working with Linda Perry and Continuing to Prove Oneself

00:31:38 : Changes in the Music Industry

00:33:43 : Release of New Song "Falling Up" and Upholding Artistic Integrity

00:35:36 : Admiration for Kanye and Artists' Personal Lives

00:37:03 : Separating Art from the Artist

00:39:01 : Hope for a Future of Grace and Equality

00:41:07 : Challenges Faced by Black Women in the Industry

00:42:27 : Jason, a Mutual Friend and Manager – Memories and Impact

00:48:01 : El Varner as a Mentor and Inspiration

00:50:39 : Importance of Clear Questions and Mentorship

00:52:00 : Deep Dive: The Story Behind the Single "Refill"

00:54:17 : Discussion on current inspiring R&B artists

00:55:39 : Decades and their influence on R&B

00:56:39 : Mount Rushmore of female R&B singers

00:58:02 : Future music plans and upcoming releases

00:59:12 : Introduction to the 212 label

01:01:27 : Plans for signing and managing new artists

01:02:25 : Closing remarks and gratitude toward the team

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