We had the good fortune of connecting with Elina Filice and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elina, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I just really wanted to help people. I was surrounded by artists and the music wasn’t the problem, the music was great, but the problem was getting it out there, marketing it in a way that drove results and told their story. I wanted to design a process that helped artists release music in an action-based way that kept them sane but also had a big impact, reached as many people as possible, and brought them closer to their dreams and goals.Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a singer/songwriter/ spoken word artist. My music is soulful and melodic, and influenced by blues and spoken word. I’m queer and a nomad, which are just a few things that have informed my perspective. I make art because I want to share my story, experiences, and observations, and to encourage other people to do the same. There’s been endless challenges and ‘no’s’ along the way. The biggest lessons I’ve learned are just to keep going. The biggest fight is just staying the ring. Be kind and give back as much as you can. To never lose sight of why I wanted to live a creative life in the first place. I want my music to be part of something bigger, and I’m an advocate for queer rights, protecting the environment, and the importance of arts and culture in society and building the new economy. I started Red Vine Records to help other artists and creative businesses with marketing and growth. I help people tell their story, develop their brand and implement strategy and structure.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m based in Hamilton, Canada at the moment, so it would have to be a tour around the horseshoe! We’d start in Toronto and the sights and sounds there, hit the gay bars and Toronto Island, catch some live music. Then to Hamilton to do a waterfall tour, then Niagara to do some wine tours, beach stops and the falls.Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I need to shoutout my parents! They’ve always been my biggest supporters. They’ve literally given me the world, really raised me in a way that made my world and mind borderless and to only see possibilities, never limitations. They’re also the kindest, happiest, and most fulfilled people I know, and always my inspiration.Website: elinafilice.com / redvinerecords.com

Instagram: @elinafilice @red_vine_records

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elina-filice-4770b8162/

Twitter: @elinafilice

Facebook: @elinafilicemusic @rredvinerecords

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/elinaplaysguitar

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.