Washington-based singer/songwriter Elaine Eagle has just released her stunning track, "Atlas." She plays on metaphor and mythology, combining them in a sonic delight. Notable influences Tori Amos and Adele can be heard throughout the ethereal song.
We sat down with Elaine to discuss some of her other inspirations, and what she's been listening to!
1.“Viva La Vida” - Coldplay
"As a musician, there are very few songs that I could endlessly leave on repeat; this is one of them. The epic cinematic strings, the lonely pathos of the lyrics, the driving beat…it just makes me want to run through a wheat field in slow motion (in the best way). "
2. “Cowboy Like Me” by Taylor Swift
"Taylor’s 'Evermore' album is my personal favorite; I absolutely love her lyricism and this song is the peak for me. The storytelling, the poetry, the imagery, it all paints a lush and sweet picture. Plus it has my favorite Taylor lyric of all time: “Now you hang from my lips like the gardens of Babylon/ With your boots beneath my bed, forever is the sweetest con”- I mean, COME ON!"
3. “She’s Always A Woman To Me” - Billy Joel
"I don’t think that anyone has ever understood me in the way that this song does. Billy Joel’s lyrics perfectly encapsulate a duality of womanhood that is very near and dear to me. This song is like the tender caress of a lover who really knows you."
4. “Luna de Xelaju” - Gaby Moreno and Oscar Isaac
"I recently learned that this tune is a very popular song in Guatemala, originally written in the 1940s. I fell in love with this song as soon as I heard it; it is dreamy, sweet, sad, longing, and beautiful. Also, if Oscar Isaac ever wanted to leave acting for a music career, I would be the happiest girl in the world. His voice and guitar playing are divine."
5. “Cherry Wine” - Hozier.
"Although the subject matter is heavy, this song is so angelic and tender. The fact that it was recorded live and you can hear birds chirping in the background add so much to the ambience and beauty of the lyrics. I’m in tears every time I listen to this song; Hozier’s poetry hits so deeply and is so raw."
Listen to "Atlas" across streaming platforms.