An Inspired Chat with el. of Uptown Phoenix

el. shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

el., really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Quality time with my closest friends here in Phoenix has helped me tremendously lately. Whether it’s meeting for drinks, or just hanging out watching a sporting event, being more involved in my community of friends has really allowed me to spend less time in solitude (i.e. being confined to my apartment while working on my music or editing content) and helps me relax more.

My mind is always on the “next thing” and being able to shut that off to spend time with friends ultimately results in me having more clarity on how to approach the next thing, whatever that may be.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I go by the artist name “el.” and I’m a Producer currently based in Phoenix, Arizona. I’ve been making beats and producing projects for over 15 years now working diligently to establish myself as an independent artist. I recently performed on my first music tour in conjunction with the Los Angeles based music collective, Beat Cinema, where I played (5) shows with members of Beat Cinema as well as local beatmakers/producers in Japan. Some other notable accomplishments include having my music featured on major music platforms such as Soulection Radio and opening up for pianist/producer Kiefer, of Stones Throw Records.

I recently released my latest album, “STILL BEAMIN'”, which serves as a deluxe edition of my 2024 album, “BEAM” (Presented by NinetoFive Records). The album is currently only available via Bandcamp.com, but physical copies will be available beginning Friday, October 10th. Listeners will also be able to stream the album on most major streaming platforms beginning October 10th.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents, no question. My Dad is a military veteran who has always shown me what hard work and discipline looks like without having to use many words. His actions speak the loudest. From the way he carried himself as a leader in the household, his work ethic, and the way he is respected by both his family and peers is something I’ve admired since I was old enough to remember. He also introduced me to music at a young age and made it clear that no matter what path or career I choose, I have to be prepared to work hard. He taught me to expect disappointment along the way, but take heed to the lessons in my failures. Every man should have core values and my Pops did an amazing job instilling those in me early on.

As for my Mom, I share the same amount of admiration for her and the examples she set for me when it comes to work. She did a great job raising me and my three siblings and gave us the skills to go out into the world and survive on our own. When it comes to work, she let me know early on to never feel inferior to anyone and to stay sharp, regardless of who’s paying attention. She is not a woman who enjoys small talk and an extremely “give it to you straight” type of woman. What I took from that is to always work with the intention of progressing and don’t fall victim to people or things that could distract me in the process.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
“You were right to follow your imagination, kid. It brought us here.”

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe good things come to those who work for it. I haven’t always been the most disciplined and experience loss often. But one thing that has been consistent when I do find success is the fact that I worked at it for a long time. The blessings on the other end are a direct result of consistency and I stand by that.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I’d stop putting off the goals I’m most passionate about. We often look at our lives by the year, setting goals for the future that we all know is not guaranteed. I’d take more chances and live with the consequences. There are so many creative ideas I want to explore and I often prioritize them based around my current routine(s). If I knew I only had ten years left on this Earth, I’d make progress on the these ideas sooner with an ambition 2-3 times greater than the current version of me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mightyrecordings.bandcamp.com/album/still-beamin
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mightyrecordings
• Twitter: https://x.com/producedbyel
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/mightyrecordings

Image Credits
Photos by Hayden Counts