eli ann is an introspective violinist turned brutally honest songwriter from Los Angeles. She began to branch out from her classical roots when she began performing and recording with indie “folkestra” Leather Tramp. She toured with them for shows around SXSW and across the U.S., and opened for Tank and the Bangas in LA during NPR’s 2017 Tiny Desk Contest On The Road tour. She also recorded strings for Gracie Gray’s “Black Clothes” and “G I Wish U,” select tracks for The Family Crest’s album The War: Act I, and The Moderates’ “Where Are You (Acoustic),” which currently has over two million streams.
After members of Leather Tramp went their separate ways, eli ann found herself playing violin with klezmer band Mostly Kosher for a season at Disney World’s EPCOT. With some time to reflect on her next musical endeavor, she decided to form a singing strings band called Her Treehouse to explore playing violin while singing harmonies. Her and her bandmates’ were featured in NPR’s All Songs Considered blog in “Our Favorite Desks In The Wild From The 2019 Tiny Desk Contest.”
During this time, eli ann began to experiment with her own self-expression through playing guitar and songwriting. Inspired by the sonic atmospheres of Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens, and the emotionally honest songwriting of John Mayer and Sara Bareilles, she discovered her own blend of vulnerable and poetic lyrics mixed with her warm vocals and ethereal soundscapes in her cinematic folk-pop debut “Lighthouse,” brought to life by producers Rachel St. Marseille, Brett Kramer (of half•alive), and Marc Encabo.
“Through her music, she invites listeners to join her on this journey of self-discovery and growth,” says Bored City Blog, where eli ann’s music is described as “heartfelt and introspective.” In her sophomore single, “sinking, seeing, dreaming,” eli ann explores the inner conflict between the need to slow down and the habit of rushing through life.
An active performing and recording violinist, eli ann recently joined The Family Crest for their headlining U.S. tour in summer 2024. She is working to record and release her debut EP.
“eli ann’s classical background shines through in the soaring string lines, and layers of lush vocals and dreamy piano lines contribute to the wide-open, seascape atmosphere.”
- Eden Tredwell from Right Chord Music
“As a debut single, ‘Lighthouse’ showcases eli ann’s immense talent as a vocalist, songwriter, and musician. With this heartfelt and introspective track, she has firmly established herself as an artist worth following, one whose music speaks directly to the human experience and leaves a lasting impact on the soul. In a world where vulnerability is often regarded as a weakness, eli ann’s ‘Lighthouse’ stands as a testament to the strength found in embracing one’s emotions and allowing oneself to heal. Through her music, she invites listeners to join her on this journey of self-discovery and growth, ultimately leading to a place of hope and renewal.” - Bored City Blog
“Elevated by eli ann’s dulcet vocals and gentle guitar arrangements, this captivating composition is enhanced by its robust production. Harmonious backing vocals, rhythmic clapping beats, and subtle string arrangements not only complement the song beautifully but also transform it into a soothing experience, making it a powerful remedy for anxiety.”
- Javier Rodriguez from Right Chord Music