We had the good fortune of connecting with Elvie Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elvie, what principle do you value most?
The principle that matters most to me is self-worth. I once read that “the wealth of my spirit is the light of my world”. – Iyanla Vanzant

From the wellspring of our thoughts about ourselves our world and what we draw in, whether good or bad is shaped.

I have learned through my journey that you can’t attract abundance, opportunity, or healthy relationships if you lack self-esteem. As I have grown in acceptance, love, and clarity of who I am and what I have been created to do, the world I’ve created for myself has become one that reflects the light of hope. This light is rooted in my belief in self.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My purpose is tri-fold as an executive producer, artist & vocal coach. So to address this question I have to look through each lens.

As a producer what sets me apart is my ability to create opportunities and performance platforms. Not only do I look for opportunities to invest in the manifestation of someone else’s creativity, but I’ve also been intentional about continually cultivating my own.

As an artist, the versatility of my gift is my greatest strength; it allows me to stand in many artistic spaces across genres authentically.

As a vocal coach, I have a strong ability to transform the individuals I come into contact with for the better. I try to foster environments that help artists feel seen beyond their talent. Then they can grow in their understanding of themselves and their unique gifts

I am most proud of the risks I have taken to embrace my passion fully. Mainly, in leaving corporate America to pursue music/entrepreneurship full time.

On the road to where I am now, I made many mistakes allowing fear to stifle my creativity, staying in workspaces that did not serve my purpose. What sustained me was the foundational principles of integrity & work ethic that I first observed from my mother, a single parent of three and an educator for over 30 years.

The greatest lesson I have learned is the value of consistency.
Over these years I have made a name for myself through consistent movements.
My artistic journey has led me to work in so many spaces such as Carnegie Hall, international festivals in Riga, Latvia Nashville Opera, equity theatres, as a session singer with established musicians such as Grammy award-winning producers Shannon Sanders, Chuck Harmony, & Claude Kelly to name a few. To now being a founder of my own business LV VOCAL STUDIO, a one-stop-shop for artists. Whether it was in a studio booth, on a stage, or in a classroom. I do my best to present my best self and that has made the world of difference in endeavoring to make a visceral impact.

There is a hefty weight that comes with effectively curating vision: assembling personnel, obtaining sponsors, and leading others, and more. However, the reward is when one moment of unity positively impacts the community. Raising awareness about local arts programming and helping emerging arts is my purpose.

I am most proud of my most recent curatorial endeavor, celebrating the essential role African Americans have played in creating the American soundtrack, I executive produced an R&B Legends Tribute Showcase in partnership with the National Museum of Africain American Musics Emerging Artists Series. This showcase was in part a fundraiser for ASET Academy an organization that provides local art opportunities for Nashville’s gifted youth. Through this showcase, we were able to assemble a cast of over 30 pre-professional and professional dancers, instrumentalists, and singers for one night only. We made history as one of the very first performances to be held at the Roots theater stage. Now and then walking through these spaces, I have to pinch myself.

As much as I have seen and done, I still have not arrived. I have learned with time that my path is not simply being created but rather it is being revealed. I simply do my best to stay present in the moment and treat every space as a masterclass. I embrace the gift of who I am and what I have to give. When it is all said and done, I want the world to know me not only for the gifts I possess but for my commitment to uplifting and serving others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I believe in living a balanced life. So I work and play hard. It’s all about the experience and vibes.

When I am in LA, visiting Santa Monica Pier & Beach is a must. Then we will head over to Third Street Promenade to check out some of the unique boutiques and end the evening at Fia Restaurant on Wilshire Blvd. This quaint outdoor patio gives the perfect ambiance. I love Michael Greco and chef Brendan Collins signature dish, my favorite black truffle cavatelli.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It truly takes a village to raise one child. The strength of that village is what has molded me into the man I am today. I have to shout out the divine spirit, my incredible family. My mother Maria Williams & Aunt Angela Beharry whose live’s dedicated to education and the fine arts have molded me into the artist I am today.

Shoutout to the institutions that helped to cultivate my creative essence Newark Boys Chorus School, Westminster Choir College of Rider University & Belmont University. A shout out to the institution with which I currently serve as Adjunct Professor of Voice, Tennessee State University for allowing me to cultivate the musical gifts of our next generation of artists.

A shoutout to my creative team Kellee Halford of L’Erin Greenfield Consultants, Cameron Keith Walls of The Lilly Walls Firm, spiritual mentor Rev. Michele Morton. Finally, a shoutout to community partners Tamar Smithers Senior Director Education and Curatorial Exhibitions at the National Museum of African American Music thank you for your belief in me and partnership to help promote opportunities for emerging artists.

Finally a shoutout to all of my vocal students for giving me hope!

Website: www.lvvocalstudio.com

Instagram: @theelviewilliams @lvvocalstudio

Twitter: @lvvocalstudio

Facebook: @theelviewilliams @lvvocalstudio

Youtube: LV Vocal Studio

Other: Steam Elvie’s Debut Single “Limitations” on all music outlets: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/elvie/cy2x

Image Credits
@simbalic @bralynstokes @newleemade @_xlprostudios

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.