What are your names?
Ellevan.
Also as an actor / director I go by Evan Giovanni.
Tell us the story behind the name ‘ ELLEVAN’.
It’s a fait number I’ve seen ever since I’ve started paying attention to the universe. It started as Winny (my wife)’s and i’s thing at first, as it shows up in special times.
I kinda took it and adapted it to my own path when we went long distance and I moved to Toronto to peruse music. I also just stand behind that type of energy as a person and a brand. Believe and just trust that you’ll be okay. It usually works out.
What is your genre of music?
Hip Hop Soul
Give us a little bio about you as a band.
Started playing live bar gigs in Toronto in 2012, expanded from there, learned everything about music in these last 5 years. I only ever did acting or stand up before that. Since then it’s just been a journey into everything. Producing, writing etc.
I’m happy to say I turned out as a prolific freestyler because I couldn’t remember the words to the songs I wrote early on. Haha
Are you a signed?
Nope! Plan to keep it that way too.
You have recently released three new songs on your youtube,Tell us more about it
1)Characteristic;
What was the writing and recording process like?
The beat; I arranged some sample packs and mixed them to my liking.
The story; we’re all full of shit.
The lyrics; completely a one take Freestyle. First time I tried on the beat is what you hear in the song.
What is the meaning behind it?
We all wear masks. Some get too into their masks of identity while forgetting that none of its real. I try to switch characters like we switch states of being.
2) Any Circumstance;
What was the writing and recording process like?
Again, the song you hear is a first time Freestyle. Singing included. I just add doubles and ad libs after.
What is the meaning behind it?
I grew up with a fair amount of challenges, as many of my heroes have. I believe it’s about how you play your hand, not what your dealt.
Choose purpose, choose love, choose courage and it’ll prolly work out. No matter what the circumstance.
3)WTF PT1
Describe the track in two words.
Let’s go! (From this party)
You also released three videos for each track, what was the filming process like and which was your favourite to shoot.
I’ve been loving shooting with MC2, Darnell and Matt. I have a blast every single time and shoot. We just smoke weed and come up with an idea and bring it to life.
Will we see a Ep or Album this year?
You will! An album. The best from the crop.
Do you have any gigs coming up or a tour?
I head to LA to write with some great artists and producers this month. So I may try and fit a little #ThatFreestyleGuy pop up show there. If not, I’ll be doing my fair share of recording and writing. ?
If so where will you be going?
LA. Tour life may begin later this year or next. I’d LOVE to start my world tour in the UK.
What made you go in to music?
It was the strongest choice I’ve made so far I believe. It hit me harder than anything I’ve ever done. It chose me I think. I don’t really have a choice anymore. I wake up and do it.
Do you play any instruments?
Nope! I produce and write the parts and mix them. But I’d rather have a real artist at that instrument come in and do their thing and I can place it how I like.
Who are your influences?
Show wise; the rat pack. Sinatra. Sammy Davis jr. you felt like they were your buddy when the show was finished back then. I want people to just come hang out with me at my shows. No pressure, but I’m gonna blow your fucking mind for sure.
Lyrically? Eminem of course. Black thought. Mos Def. Drake. Tech N9ne at times.
How do you get inspiration to write songs?
Feelings.
Looking at your youtube channel you love to collaborate, would you be up for collaborating with new artists/bands and if so how could they contact you?
Always. If there’s a vibe and the artist has their ducks in a row and knows their strengths I’ll put them on anything.
Will we see any new collaborations coming soon?
Yes. I got a couple singles with some notable friends in the industry and I’m looking forward to them.
Where do you see yourself now in 5 Years?
At the Grammy’s.
When you’re not doing music, what do you do?
Act in, Produce and Direct films.
Where would your dream venue to play in your hometown?
I prefer to go back to Vancouver as little as possible to be completely honest. Hahahaha but the Orphium.
If you could collaborate with one UK Artists or Band who would it be?
Sam Smith. (Dead? – Amy Winehouse)
If you could collaborate with one US Artists or Band who would it be?
Eminem. We’d rap our fucking asses off.
If he told me to get lost, Action Bronson. Big fan.
What was the song you listened to most that influenced you to go more in to the music scene?
Drake’s album “Take Care” was my theme music the year I was getting into the scene in Toronto (go figure).
What’s the best advice you have ever been given?
Do it yourself.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians not about the industry and just as an artist?
Find out why you’re doing this. Cause it’s fucking tough some days. But if you know why you’re doing it, it’ll all be worth it.
What quote or saying do you always stick by?
‘Fuck it’ hahaha
PG version. – this is an energetic world. One of frequency and vibration.
When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
My own mic. (if possible)
Weed.
Kombucha.
My phone (for stage video selfies)
Change of shirt (cause I sweat like a mofo while performing)
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
Everywhere!
Buy ‘A LIFE GONE BY’ EP HERE
