17-year-old pop vocalist Ellise Gitas has an incredible talent way beyond her years. Having established herself as a YouTube sensation, Ellise has captivated many with her incredible covers of popular songs from Justin Bieber to Adele.
Her silky vocals and flawless production give an edge to any song she covers. The artist recently opened for Grant Landis on tour and is currently I the studio recording her first EP. She’s also currently in the Top 25 in the Macy’s iHeart Radio Rising Star Competition, which will allow the winner to open the iHeart Radio Music Festival in Las Vegas this fall!
Follow Elise at:
Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / Youtube
Listen to Ellise Gitas and Grant Landis cover Justin Bieber’s ‘Love Yourself’ next!
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I moved to LA and began to post covers on Youtube. That gained me attention and opportunities started to pop up, allowing me to begin recording original music.
What is your musical background?
I was always in school choir and did local competitions or performances, but before moving to Los Angeles, I was just doing small gigs in restaurants or choir concerts!
Do you play any instrument?
I play piano and a little guitar. I really want to learn how to play drums!
Do you ever get nervous?
All the time! I believe nerves are normal and healthy. I always get butterflies before I’m about to go on stage, but once I get on, they always fly away.
If you could go open up for any artist on tour right now who would it be?
I would love to be opening for Shawn Mendes on the Handwritten tour, or for Ariana Grande on her upcoming tour!
Why did you decide to start uploading videos and doing covers on youtube?
I really wanted my voice to be heard, so I decided to post covers. The feedback has been amazing and I’m so happy I decided to upload that first cover and keep going.
Did you expect having that feedback and great comments?
Honestly, I never expected that the covers would get as much attention as they have. I’m so grateful for the positive feedback and loving comments from everyone.
What’s the best and hardest part of being a musician?
The best part is always creating the music for me. When you’re writing and all the pieces start to come together there’s a certain energy in the room… it’s an awesome feeling. The hardest part is probably just staying positive, despite hate comments or people trying to bring you down.
Who else in your family sings?
My little brother is extremely musically talented, and my dad plays piano and sings as well! We love having family jam sessions.
Best advice ever given?
My mom told me a long time ago that as I grow up, people are going to try to pull me in different directions and get me to be what they want me to be. She has always instilled self assurance into me and told me to stay true to what I personally believe in, despite what others want.
Do you have a role model?
Selena Gomez is a big role model in the industry for me. She’s been working as a young professional since she was a young girl and has always stayed level.
