Michael Eliran may only be 14 years old, but his music is ageless. He is already an acclaimed musician and incredibly talented song writer. BSCkids interview Eliran about his ambitions in the music world as well as how his career choice has (and will continue) to change his life.
His 7 song EP, “An Anthem to Forget” was recorded over a period of one week with talented producer Felix McTeigue. It showcases his breezy pop sound with tender ballads and unforgettable songs. In addition to writing and co-producing the songs, Eliran also played piano and guitar on all of the tracks. While he is only 14, he is taking on the musical world with his dreamy songs of life. Michael’s EP can be heard via www.MichaelEliran.com and can be purchased via his site or via iTunes.
BSCkids: Michael Eliran
When did you first begin playing music? Did you start on the guitar first or the piano?
I started playing piano at the age of five, picking up guitar five years later at the age of ten.
What did you parents say when you told them you wanted to be a musician?
My family is a very musical one (my father’s an Israeli folk star and my mother a graduate of Berklee College of Music), so it was no surprise that they supported my decision wholeheartedly. Their support and advice all this time has truly helped me progress.
Who do you think is the most inspiring musician?
To me it’s John Lennon. I find the Beatles as an entity equally, but John Lennon’s lyrics, messages, and all his songs in general most bring out the writer in me. Listening to so much Lennon improved my songwriting in its early years.
You are a very young musician; do you find it hard for people to take you seriously at such a young age?
That’s always been a concern of mine. I try to show through my songs that I’m not just a child pop star controlled like a puppet by some company. However, I’ve received a lot of support since I’ve started, so that worry is slowly diminishing.
Where do you gain the inspiration for the songs you write?
Inspiration for my songs doesn’t come from just one place. It comes from anywhere and anything, whether it’s a scene of everyday life, a world of fiction, a miniscule sound, or a grand masterpiece.
Are there any musicians or bands that you would love to collaborate with?
There are plenty of artists I’d love to collaborate with, The Strokes, Jack White, and Coldplay to name a few. Hopefully in the future I’ll get the chance.
You must perform a lot, but do you still get nervous when you are in front of a crowd or on stage?
Everybody gets nervous; it’s how they handle it and transform it into energy that makes the difference. I still get nervous before performances, but once I’m up there the nerves transform into feelings of excitement and passion for what I do. Nervousness can be a good thing and a sign of a devoted artist. The way I see it, if you care about what you do, you’ll always be nervous.
Do your friends treat you differently now that you are becoming very successful?
Not really. Quite frankly, I wouldn’t want them to, either. They’ve always been nice, loving, and supportive towards me. It’s just that every now and then I’ll hear them humming one of the tunes off the album.
Have you had any awkward moments since you’ve been gaining attention?
Not really, actually—or should I say, not yet.
What has been your favorite place to perform?
The Howard Stern show. It was such a fun and exciting experience and I was able to spread my music farther. I’ll never forget how great it was.
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