20 Questions is a Q&A interview series with musicians, authors, and everyone in between, celebrating experiences both shared and individual in the messy game of being human.
Having already served as an opening act for Little Mix, Tulisa, Fleur East, Alesha Dixon, Foxes, and more, London-based rising pop star Eleni C is gearing up for the release of her latest single “Tug of War” on February 12th, a track described as being nurtured with independent optimism created by bold and empowering vocals. The singer states it’s an anthem projecting strength within a past toxic relationship. “Sometimes the hardest thing is to let go of the person that you love the most,” she says. “We tend to forget that love shouldn’t hurt but if it does, we should love ourselves enough to let go.” The release follows her previous singles “Silent Voices” and “I Don’t Give a Damn.”
I had the chance to chat with Eleni for the latest edition of 20 Questions, where we spoke about her new song, her passion for music and mental health awareness, her biggest inspirations, and more.
What is your earliest memory of wanting a career in music?
I wanted to be a singer for as long as I remember myself. I was that kid that used every hairbrush as a microphone.
Which artists did you grow up listening to?
Christina Aguilera, Spice Girls, and the Backstreet Boys.
Who are your biggest influences, both musically and stylistically?
Musically it’s Adele. I find the way she performs a song and conveys emotions mesmerizing. Stylistically I have a plethora of influences, but I can say the colorful creations of Dolce & Gabbana have captured my heart. Fundamentally I like to mix and match my outfits combining haute couture with high street fashion and create my own unique style.
Out of all the songs you’ve released so far, which one stands out the most to you?
“I Don’t Give a Damn.” I find it very empowering and I love the dance routine that goes with it.
Best song you’ve heard in the last year?
I absolutely love the song “Head & Heart” by Joel Corry and MNEK.
The last book you finished?
The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma.
One piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Have a little bit more faith in you and the person you want to be and the things you can achieve.
When are you the most inspired?
At nighttime when all is quiet and I have time to think.
One movie that will always make you cry?
The Vow.
What would you say is your biggest strength in life?
My biggest strength is probably my biggest weakness too, as everything I do I do it from the heart.
One vice you wish you could give up?
Carbs. (It’s never going to happen.)
The last series you binge-watched?
Victoria on ITV.
You’re stuck on a long flight. Which world-famous musician would you want sitting next to you and why?
Adele! She seems to have a wicked personality.
What inspired the songwriting process for your latest single “Tug of War”?
Everyday life inspired me. Let’s just say I wrote a real-life story on a music sheet that had to be said.
Biggest pet peeve?
Random barking while watching TV scares the life out of me.
One song that you will never be sick of?
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper.
Pop music or rock music?
Pop music.
One person in your life who has inspired you the most?
Jennifer Lopez, because she is the epitome of a fierce, independent woman that made it her own way.
One thing that has been keeping you sane throughout the COVID-19 pandemic?
My exercise regime.
In a perfect world, where would you like to see yourself five years from now?
On tour, travelling around the world singing my songs and raising mental health awareness.
Follow Eleni C on Twitter and Instagram, and stream her latest single “Tug of War” out February 12th wherever you listen to music.
Jeffrey Reads 