We sit down with the ever-innovative ellee ven, a singer, songwriter, creator, and investor who continues to redefine what it means to carve your own path in the music industry. Known for her genre-defying style and deep commitment to creativity, ellee ven and her band, The Groovalution, are pioneering a new era of musical expression. With the release of her latest album, I Know So, ellee delivers not just a collection of songs, but a bold statement of personal empowerment, blending pop, rock, and electronica into a sound she dubs “Groovetonics.” In our conversation, she shares insights into her creative process, the powerful themes of the album, and her approach to balancing artistry with business. From the collaborative energy of her band to the influence of diverse global sounds, ellee ven takes us on a journey through her music and vision.
“I Know So” is such a bold statement. What was the primary message or theme you wanted to convey with this album?
It’s interesting to hear that “I Know So” is perceived as a powerful statement. It’s really just a gentle reminder to tap into your personal power. To bask in it actually and to go back to it when times are tough.
Can you walk us through your creative process for this album? How did you approach blending genres like pop, rock, and electronica into your unique “Groovetonics” sound?
My process has changed over the years. I’ve written songs that started from someone’s track, songs I dreamt up in my head, and song ideas and lyrics that I “pasted” together, but for the last five years, I’ve been sticking to a pretty consistent pattern. And it’s spending quality time with my band regularly. We meet at least five times a year at my Kentucky home for a week of Band Camp where we make deposits into our songbank. We throw out all the ideas there. We also plan two or three recording sessions far in advance where we will pull our favorite songs from the bank. We schedule it no matter how many songs there are or not and we always make room for wild and crazy ideas. We even spend a little time with the crazy ideas that become the best ideas.
The album dives deep into personal empowerment. Were there specific moments in your own life that inspired the lyrics of songs like “I Know So”?
For sure. I think that people think that if you are asking existential questions you need their opinion or help. I don’t feel that way at all. I have faith in my vision. I trust in happy accidents and divine timing. I’m always asking and I am always trying to align with what I really see and feel regardless of what is happening according to Bob or Larry.
With such an eclectic sound, how do you decide which elements to incorporate into each track? Is there a specific feeling or vibe you’re aiming for?
We always start with an electronic track and then add bass in, real drums. The biggest question is always do we invite a violinist, a DJ, another bassist, a guitar player, a horn player? It really just depends upon the song and the only measure is “does it feel right”?
Collaborating with talented musicians like Terry Santiel, Prodéje, and Jody Giachello must have been an amazing experience. What was the collaboration process like, and how did their contributions shape the sound of the album?
The collaboration process is incredible. It really is about immersing oneself in an environment where people are immersed. No one is asking for anyone’s attention. We are in a creative cubby hole.
“I Know So” explores the pressure to conform in today’s world. How do you personally navigate societal expectations in both your personal and professional life?
I navigate societal expectations and my personal and professional life like anyone I suppose. Sometimes I think I get things right naturally. Sometimes I feel like I have to carry my journal with me every minute of the day: sometimes I feel like I can do nothing and I just need to walk for a while and maybe get a massage. So I do my best. Always asking what’s the next best step? I try to be clear, under promise over deliver and check in with my therapist when necessary.
As a creator and investor, how do you balance the business side of your career with your creative vision?
I balance my career with my creative vision by creating a life that I call a working vacation. I like to feel productive. Sometimes there is imbalance but always a desire to take care. I love what I do and inevitably, like even the strongest warrior, I respond to bomb palms and spa services.
This album feels very personal. Was there a specific track or moment on the record that stands out as the most cathartic or significant for you?
The moment that really stands out for me on this album is when we wrote, “I Know So”, it seemed almost too simple, and now when I listen back, I see that it really is at the heart of what’s happening now. And it does not have to be complicated. We just need to tune in.
You’ve described your music as a fusion of different global sounds. Do any specific cities or cultures influence your music beyond just the sounds themselves?
My sound is a fusion of global sounds for sure, but I don’t really parse it out. It’s whatever hits the heartstrings. I spend a lot of time in New York and I’m always surrounded by very diverse sights, sounds and beliefs.
What’s next for you after the release of “I Know So”? Are there any new projects or directions you’re looking forward to exploring in the future?
What’s next for me? Happy to say I’m OTW to the happiest place on earth. Back to Larrabee for a week in the studio.
