Simply Six: ELAN

1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?

I think the first time I realized I wanted to dedicate my life to singing and music was when my parents gave me "Pearl" by Janis Joplin and my dad's collection of Beatle albums when I was about six years old. I think that was when I really said; "ok, this is what I'm going to do for the rest of my life". 

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

I try to listen to new stuff lately since it helps me figure out which direction music is heading towards. When I write lyrics I'll listen to Bon Iver, Sigur Ros, Wim Mertens. I think there are a lot of really cool bands out right now. I love listening to The Vaccines, The Kooks, Beach House. Depending on what mood I'm in. The truth is I'll always have to go back to my original influences. All of the older bands and music from the 60's and 70's. But I do try to stay up to date with recent stuff.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

I think it's when I arrived in Australia on tour for the first time and realized that I was on the other side of the world and there were people who were singing our songs and coming to our shows and waiting outside hotels for us. It was pretty shocking. Finally these songs that I had written when I was much younger alone in my room had reach people near and far and had caused them to FEEL something. Pretty incredible. 

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

I do think music can change the world. Or at least I do believe it HAS changed certain aspects about it in the past. I think it's just a question of writing music from the heart and not being afraid to say things other people might be too afraid to say or sing. But yes, I think most people feel that music is the only thing that makes sense. No matter where you come from or your beliefs, music has always been there and always will be. 

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

I think it's helped us a lot. It's incredible how much the industry has changed since we released our first album! But I think the greatest thing about technology right now is that they can find us on the other side of the world and so can we! Also, it gives us a chance to hear people out and find out what they like and what they don't like. 

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

I'd be an All Saints Spitalfields boot. Dirty, and screaming out rock and roll.  :)