8 December 2025

Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with London based artist Elfi to find out more…
Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
I’m from the Netherlands, I actually only moved to London around 2 years ago to join a music academy here.
I always enjoyed music as a child, but the love really started when I got a microphone for my seventh birthday. From that day, my family had to sit through many, many performances.
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
My dad made sure to brainwash me on Sade, Sting and Diana Ross. I still listen to that music a lot, not only for nostalgia, it’s just great stuff.
The music I make is very influenced by leading ladies of pop, Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams and Lana Del Rey.
How would you describe your sound?
The best word I have is glittery pop. The songs I write are very personal, I’m very lyric-driven. It’s catchy, and it’s big feelings.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
“be careful what you wish for”
I wrote the song a few months after a break-up, when I had a moment of clarity and the rose-coloured glasses came off. I realised that he always managed to say really mean things, like that I felt too much and should tone it down. I truly dodged a bullet and was so happy that I wasn’t the one for him.
What’s your local music scene like?
London is amazing for live music. There’s always an artist playing, be it in the big arenas or in small venues. It’s important that we protect that aspect of the city, the grassroot venues, to give opportunities to starting artists and to keep that magical aspect of London.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
I’ve just released my second EP, but I’m already working on my third one – so lots of new songs and music. Plus, we might go on a little Europe tour in 2026.
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
Olivia Dean. Please call me.
Any funny stories surrounding your live performances?
Loads! The magic of live performing is that you can’t really predict what will happen and that shows every single time. It’s small incidents, like one time my water bottle rolled from the stage all the way through the crowd, to me getting really caught up in the relationship status of two audience members. I hope the date went well and that they’re together now, they looked like a cute couple.
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
How much I love doing this. The biggest gift of my life is my songwriting, and I’m so happy that people are listening to it. I find it truly magical.
You can find out more about Elfi on her website or via Instagram, Spotify, Threads, TikTok or YouTube.