5 facts about R&B sensation Elaine

The Internet creates endless opportunities for creatives like Elaine, who would have remained undiscovered within the traditional music industry space. The talented musician released her debut seven-track EP, Elements, late last year, and instantly made waves as the first independent South African female to top the Apple music charts. Topping the R&B charts made everyone take note and wonder about the young woman with the smooth and delicate voice singing over blues and moody strings. Her single You’re The One is currently at number three on Metro FM’s Top 40, which is a major achievement at the country’s largest urban radio station. 

READ MORE: Ciara’s hair story, in collaboration with her new single, #Melanin

Here are five things you may not know about her: 

1. She turns 21 in April, and wrote most of the music in her EP in her late teens.

2. She is a law student at a leading university in the country.

3. The first CD she ever bought was B’Day by Beyoncé.

READ MORE: 5 Minutes with Blaq Diamond

4. She suffers from social anxiety, but shares that she finds solace in creating music.

View this post on Instagram

Took me over a year to put this project together. I had to start over multiple times, but it’s finally come full circle. I wrote every word from the depths of my heart, and I hope you guys hear it & feel it. S/o to my amazing team too. Elements EP is out now ?? Big love

A post shared by Shining Star (@elaineofficial_) on Sep 29, 2019 at 1:02am PDT

READ MORE: “I feel ready to share a part of my true being,” Boity Thulo on her reality show

5. She partnered with Nike on its Airmax Day promotion with an unplugged session.