by alicia urrea
photo courtesy of elliot james reay
There’s a popular expression that has been floating across generations to signify the demise of a once beloved genre: rock ‘n’ roll is dead. It’s easy to stir up an argument on whether that phrase sings true, but a charming new artist is breaking out of the enclosure of mainstream music styles and is embracing a classic, oldies influence.
Elliot James Reay is a 22-year-old musician from Greater Manchester, England, who is challenging modern genres and has seemingly brought the rock ‘n’ roll era back to life with his two releases, “I Think They Call This Love” and “Boy In Love.” With a debut album releasing this spring, there’s still a lot to learn about the young rockstar.
I genuinely think it’s so cool that you’re utilizing a ‘50s and ‘60s style in your music. I can definitely hear the Elvis influence; who would you say are some of your other biggest musical influences?
Elliot: “Roy Orbison is a massive influence for me. I love his voice and the way he could channel his emotions through music. I try to channel his raw vocal style and his incredible songwriting into my own music where I can. Billy Fury is another big one, and if you go even further back, The Ink Spots. I love how timeless their melodies are. There’s something special about the way those artists made music — it wasn’t overcomplicated, just pure emotion and great songwriting.”
Do you have any influences that are unrelated to music?
Elliot: “I take a lot of inspiration from classic film stars — James Dean, Alain Delon and Marlon Brando. There was an effortless cool about them, but it wasn’t forced. I try to incorporate that classic, timeless style into what I wear and how I present myself.”
So far, your two releases, “I Think They Call This Love” and “Boy In Love,” thematically explore romance and all of the emotions that come with infatuation. What inspired you to write both tracks?
Elliot: “These songs are straight from the heart. I write about what I feel, and love is something I’ve never been afraid to express. I also love the idea of bringing back that classic ‘50s theme of devotion and infatuation. Back then, men weren’t afraid to sing about love in a pure and sincere way. I think there’s something really cool in that, and it inspires me to try and keep that spirit alive.”
Is the topic of love a commonality we’ll see on the album?
Elliot: “Every time I sit down to write a song, it somehow turns into a love song — I can’t seem to escape it! I’m trying my best to broaden the themes for the album, but I can’t promise anything.”
What is your creative process like?
Elliot: “My process is simple, just have fun. I feel extremely lucky to be making the music I love, so writing comes naturally. Both of my songs so far have only taken a few hours to write.
I also have an amazing team. My producers and writers are some of my closest friends, so every session is just a group of mates messing around, throwing ideas out, and seeing what sticks. Nothing is taken too seriously, but we all feel so passionately about the music we’re making together. I think you can hear that in the songs.”
What is your earliest memory with music? What made you want to pursue music and hone in on the rock ‘n’ roll genre specifically?
Elliot: “I’ve been listening to Elvis my entire life — literally. My mum told me she used to play his music to me when she was pregnant, so I guess it all started before I was even born.
Rock ‘n’ roll is just a massive part of me and my identity. To me, it is the greatest genre of music.
Growing up, people thought I was a bit odd for loving ‘50s rock ‘n’ roll, but I never cared. I wasn’t going to change just to fit in. I make this music because I love it — it’s who I am.”
How does it feel being compared to Elvis? It’s a huge compliment — but how do you maintain your individuality? What makes your artistry as Elliot James Reay unique?
Elliot: “It’s a massive compliment, but personally, I don’t hear it. Elvis is one of my idols, and I hold him in such high regard — I don’t think anyone can truly compare. When it comes to my music, I don’t want to impersonate Elvis; I want to create something that could be played alongside him. I want my music to feel fresh but to keep the spirit of these greats alive.
At the end of the day, I’m just Elliot. Loving Elvis and ‘50s music is a huge part of who I am, but I’m my own person. I think that’s what makes me unique — I’m bringing my own perspective, my own experiences, and my own voice to a genre that means the world to me.”
photo by em cole
What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment so far?
Elliot: “Honestly, just releasing my first single was a massive accomplishment. I was definitely advised against making ‘I Think They Call This Love,’ but I stuck to my guns, and I’m glad I did —I’ve proved that this music still has a place today.”
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Elliot: “That’s a tough one because there are so many great albums, but I’d have to go with Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii. It’s a live performance, and I’ll never get over how flawless his vocals and the music are. It’s a huge inspiration for me. One day, I’d love to record a live album myself.”
How do you want people to feel when they listen to Elliot James Reay? What do you hope they take away from your songs?
Elliot: “I just want people to feel like they can relate — whether that’s through their own experiences, memories, or emotions. If someone finds comfort in my songs, that means everything to me. And if they tap their foot along the way, even better. I also want people who feel ‘different’ to feel seen. I grew up loving music that wasn’t necessarily what everyone else was listening to, and I know what it’s like to feel out of place. If my music can reach people who feel the same way and make them feel understood, then I’ve done something right.”