Today we’d like to introduce you to Eileen.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
R&B music was a strong staple in my childhood. I grew up to the sounds of Billie Holiday, The Pointer Sisters, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Toni Braxton, and a lot of other household names. Everything about their music fueled my desire to want to be like them, to create music as they did; their voices, harmonies, emotional impact, lyrics…I wanted to be a strong voice in the music world.
So, I took my first step into the music industry when I was 15. I collaborated with other local artists and producers, shot a music video, and garnered plays on internet radio and podcasts while being featured in a few independent music magazines. I was also nominated for a few independent music awards. When I was 19, I auditioned for American Idol and America’s Got Talent. I didn’t advance, but it was fun and definitely a learning experience!
In 2009, I met my partner, now husband, in college. It was actually our love for R&B that brought us together. In 2010, we created our company, Eidall Music, which started as an indie record label and has now branched out to include departments in audio recording, music production, creative content, and marketing.
I can honestly say I followed my childhood dream. Music is my passion, and I can’t imagine my life without it.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all! I’ve had music stolen from me by people I collaborated with. I was taken advantage of by a former manager. I’ve worked with producers who didn’t know how to guide me and work with my sound. Some weren’t as skilled in their field as they portrayed. These challenges led me to start learning more about the music business myself and how to protect myself and my craft. The business side of the music industry is just as important, if not more important, than the creative side.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m an R&B recording artist, songwriter, and producer, and essentially, that’s what my work revolves around.
My first EP, ‘Redemption,’ was released in 2019, and a few songs were placed in a couple of indie movies. By far, this is what I’m most proud of. This project was also nominated at the 18th Annual Independent Music Awards for ‘Best Urban EP.’ I am currently working on my follow-up EP.
I think what sets me apart musically is my undying passion for being a part of music in any way, shape, or form. What I mean is that many artists can have a love for music and not see themselves beyond the center stage, which is completely fine! For me, however, as much as I love to sing, I don’t need to in order to be happy musically. I’m content writing for others because I’m still involved in the creative process and bringing new music to life. I’m fine being behind the scenes as a creative director. I’m even happy to handle all business aspects so the artist can focus on making music. I just have to be involved in music in some capacity.
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
You have to take risks, otherwise, you’ll never know what you’re truly capable of and the impact you can make. That said, you can’t step out on faith and stand on fear, either. Starting my company was a major risk, as we didn’t have any capital or resources like major labels. We had to build from the ground up and learn through trial and error. Now, we have a strong team of creative individuals and a solid collaborative network.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/eileenisrnb
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/eileenisrnb
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/eileen_isrnb
Image Credits
Mario Wills Photography
Elise Schutte
