Artist to Watch: Elise Davis
Where most artists wear their heart on their sleeve, Elise Davis wears hers in her emotionally-packed voice. The Little Rock native is making waves in Nashville’s music scene after winning American Songwriter‘s “The Pub Contest” — a hefty publishing deal with HoriPro Entertainment — which was judged by artists like Holly Williams and Hunter Hayes earlier this month. The year-long deal will be the first venture into co-writing for the solo-singer, who has written all of her previous efforts, and was honored to have been selected for the opportunity.
Often drawing comparisons to the likes of Emmylou Harris and Lucinda Williams, Davis’ music has captured the attention of more than just those invested in the contest. Her voice, so rich and mature, audiences are shocked to learn the singer is only 24 years young. Not surprising though, once you learn it was at age 12 that the singer penned her first song after an argument with her parents over a rock concert she wanted to attend. While she may have lost that battle, the experience gave her a new passion and love of songwriting.
Four records later, — yes, she’s already got a catalog bigger than most artists have their entire career — Davis is preparing for the release of her new EP. The compilation, titled Big Ol’ Dreams will include two tracks from previous releases, including a newly mixed version of her standout track “Make the Kill,” and packaged with three new songs, including the EP’s first single “Right Where We Should Be.”
Early this week, I sat down with the singer to learn more of her story in a Nashville coffee shop (Fido, for those of you local) and was impressed by her laid-back yet confident demeanor. She’s certain in what she says when speaking of her tunes, but not in an arrogant way. She’s proud of the masterpieces she creates and hopes others will gravitate towards her sometimes daring, but relatable lyrics.
When asked about the new EP, she lit up saying, “It’s time! I’ve put out music almost every year and it’s been a while since Cheap Date, I want people to know where I’m at now.” A common thread through all of her musical projects, always honest and true to where the singer is in her life, the title and autobiographical lyrics of the first single of the new project illustrate that.
Check out the singer’s video for her new single “Right Where We Should Be,” then pick up more of her music on iTunes.
Big Ol’ Dreams is available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody and streaming on Spotify now.
