Meet Elsian Atienza | Musical Artist

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

Hi Elsian, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic career because, for as long as I can remember, music has always felt like home. Growing up in Oak Harbor, a small town on an island, opportunities were limited, but I still found ways to put myself out there, whether it was posting covers on YouTube, performing at school talent shows, or local community events. It was never about chasing fame, I just really loved doing it.

After high school, I focused on school and took a step back from music. But in 2022, I hit a low point mentally and emotionally. I felt stuck and unsure of where I was going, until I turned back to music as a way to process everything I was feeling. I started writing songs in my bedroom — just me, my mic, and my laptop. At first, it was just for me. But then I started sharing clips online, and people actually connected with them. That support lit something in me. It reminded me that this was more than just a hobby, it was something I needed.

In 2023, I released my first song on Spotify, and things really started to shift. I got the chance to open for artists I admire like Jimmy Brown, Car, the Garden, Janine, and Pity Party (Girls Club). I’ve headlined local festivals, sold out my first headline show in Seattle, and in summer 2024, I signed with 88rising, something I never imagined when I first started making music in my room.

Music is more than something I love doing, it’s how I make sense of the world, and the fact that it resonates with others is very rewarding. Every show, every song, every message I get from someone who feels connected to the music, it reminds me why I started and why I keep going.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My name is Elsian and I go by the artist name “LCN!”. I am a Filipino singer / songwriter based in Seattle, Washington. My music blends indie pop, R&B, and electronic influences, and it’s deeply inspired by personal experiences like growing up, navigating relationships, and the ongoing journey of self discovery and identity. Every song I make is a reflection of what I’ve lived, felt, or questioned. It’s personal, but I think that’s what allows others to connect to it too.

What sets me apart is the way I approach my music with honesty and vulnerability. I’m not afraid to be real in my songs, to talk about confusion, heartbreak, joy, or healing. I also take pride in representing my Filipino roots and creating space for stories like mine in this industry.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come in such a short time. I started releasing music professionally in 2023 and since then, I’ve gotten the chance to open for artists I used to listen to growing up, and I’ve performed at major festivals like Seattle Pride and Capitol Hill Block Party, sold out my first headline show, and in the summer of 2024, I signed with 88rising, something I would’ve never imagined a few years ago.

It definitely hasn’t been easy. After high school, I put music on pause to focus on college, and in 2022, I hit a low point. I felt unmotivated and unsure of my path. That’s when I found my way back to music, writing songs in my bedroom with just a mic and my laptop. It became a way for me to process everything I was feeling. I started posting clips online, and to my surprise, people resonated with them. That gave me the push I needed.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to trust my timing. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, especially in this industry, but I’ve learned that growth doesn’t always look the same for everyone. You just have to stay true to yourself, be consistent, and keep showing up.

Every step I’ve taken has been about trusting my gut, staying true to my story, and creating music that feels honest. I think that’s what I hope people take from my story, that you don’t have to have it all figured out, or have all the resources, to start. Just start with what you have, believe in your voice, and keep going.

My journey hasn’t been perfect, but it’s been real. I’m grateful for every step, and I’m excited to keep evolving, both as a person and an artist. My goal has always been to make music that helps people feel seen, and I hope to continue doing just that.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, I’d definitely have to give them the full experience, a little bit of everything that makes LA fun. I love thrifting at 2nd Street and other local thrift stores in the area, so we’d go digging for some gems, then probably hit up a mall after.

I’d also take them to one of my favorite spots, Tokyo Central. It’s this Asian marketplace that has everything from snacks and food to home goods. I also love the beaches and could stay there from morning to sunset, just walking the boardwalk, watching street performers, grabbing food, and vibing out. There’s something about it that feels unreal, like you’re in a movie or something.

I love how in LA, there’s always something happening. Whether it’s food, fashion, music, or just exploring random spots in the city, there’s never a dull moment. Living here has been incredible, and I’d want my best friend to experience all the little moments that make this place so special.

Ask ChatGPT

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My older sister, Elica, has been there since the very beginning. Not just as my manager, but as someone who genuinely supports me through it all. She handles everything from shows to releases, and keeps everything moving behind the scenes while also being one of the most solid people in my life. I really wouldn’t be where I am without her.

My mom also deserves a lot of recognition. She is one of the strongest people I know and has always supported me, even when the path wasn’t clear. Her work ethic, her love, and just the way she’s always there for me, it’s something I carry with me every day.

I also want to shoutout the rest of my family and friends who’ve been there since day one, showing up to every practice, show, and who are there through all the highs and lows. We’re still at the beginning of this journey, but having them by my side through it all means everything and I couldn’t ask for a better team!

Website: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3ZJgVLQXKogqP64D9c7ULt?si=HedM9l3MTxmd3gdHh8dnMA

Instagram: https://instagram.com/whoislcn

Youtube: https://youtube.com/elsian

Image Credits
Casiano Atienza