Dutch-born, London-based pop artist Elfi is no stranger to turning life’s hardest lessons into shimmering pop gold. With her latest single 'be careful what you wish for', she transforms the sting of heartbreak into a moment of empowerment, one that’s as honest as it is danceable. It’s the first taste of her upcoming EP '11.11', and a prime example of her ability to mix vulnerability, bold choruses, and melodic finesse.
Written after an unexpectedly emotional visit to a restaurant once frequented with an ex, the track marks a turning point for Elfi, a moment of clarity that reframed what once felt like love. Polished in LA with producer John McLucas and recorded between London, Los Angeles, and Amsterdam, 'be careful what you wish for' sets the tone for a new chapter in Elfi’s journey, one filled with emotional truth, sonic ambition, and joy in letting go.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her background and what has inspired her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
My voice - I was always singing as a kid. My uncle got me my first microphone for my 7th birthday, after that my family had to sit through many, many performances. Bless them.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
My dad did a really good job of brainwashing me with the greats. I listened a lot to Sting, Sade and ABBA. Pretty iconic line-up.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I remember the first CD that I bought myself was ‘Irreplaceable’ by Beyonce. I listened to it over and over again. After that I got the live cd of Anouk, a Dutch artist, in which she performed in a huge stadium in the Netherlands (Gelredome). I listened to the intro at least a thousand times. Pretty sure that CD made me want to be on stage.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Majorie by Taylor Swift. I mean she has a way of making a personal experience feel universal, but it feels like those songs completely described the bond I had with my aunt who I lost a few years ago. Like it was written on my skin.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I take a lot of walks. To find melodies, to find lyrics, I put on my coat and head out to the park. I people watch, I eavesdrop a lot and then slowly something will come to me. Every time I try to really write behind the piano, it doesn’t flow as much. I need to get moving.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’ve been obsessed with Olivia Dean for years and it’s so good to see her really take-over now. I listen to her album non-stop, mixed with the new Laufey album. Absolutely magical.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Always Taylor Swift. Closely followed by Olivia Dean. You can call me anytime.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
For me, it’s performing live. I love feeling the energy of the room and seeing people respond to the music, just makes it all so real. I’ve had a few shows now where the crowd sung my lyrics back to me and it was the most surreal experience.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Writer’s block. I know most artists would say social media, but I actually really enjoy connecting with people online. The most frustrating thing is when I want to write, and suddenly there’s nothing.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Protect your creative time like your life depends on it and never quit.
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Elfi's new single 'be careful what you wish for' is out now. Check it out in the player below.