Carli Elizabeth: I remember being a kid, about 7 or 8 years old, listening over and over again to “Open Arms” by Journey. I didn't know why, let alone explain why I liked it; it just sounded "right." I loved the way this note fit with that note and my little ears couldn’t get enough. Little did I know I was developing a love for beautiful melodies through this song. I didn't grow up in a musical family - in fact the opposite: I grew up playing sports. I was so jealous of the kids whose parents were making them take piano lessons. When I asked for a guitar for my 14th birthday, my parents were stunned. Regardless, my whole family pitched in money to buy me my first guitar, a Yamaha from Costco! I taught myself some chords and eventually got guitar and singing lessons. I began leading worship in church and at my school. After high school I had a rough couple of years and had to be really honest with myself. I knew I had no desire to attend college and that’s when I began to pursue music as a career.

Carli: Yes. It's a huge step for me and honestly a scary one. I'm working against my insecurities everyday, but hopeful that, with each song release, it gets better!

Carli: I'm completely and utterly obsessed with '80s music. I love the bass, I love the synth, I love the hair, I love the outfits...I just love the craziness of the '80s. So I always knew that I wanted to create music that made you dance and move your feet. I’m taking my love for acoustic songs and translating them into a music style that’s completely me. For a long time I felt misunderstood because people knew me only as the acoustic guitar girl, that being my main instrument. I've ventured out of that a little and this song is a transition into the songs I will be sharing in the future with more bass and synth.

Carli: I'm currently working on songwriting and building my EP content. My goal right now is to become the best songwriter that I can and to share honest, well-written songs with people.

Carli: I'm looking to stay independent for now. I believe there's never been a better time to be an independent artist than right now! I love the simple DIY feel and the authenticity that comes along with it. I’d love for people to be able to experience this journey with me and for me to be able to welcome them into my life. It’s almost like the small business movement happening, everyone plays a part! That’s what I love about being an independent artist: the community.

Carli: When I’m not playing music I enjoy playing fetch with my bulldog Petunia, sitting at coffee shops for countless hours, baseball, watching I Love Lucy, and reading about the Enneagram. I also include watching the local news as a hobby of mine; I really enjoy it!

Carli: I would have dinner with David and Solomon. I love the sincere heart of David and the wise words of Solomon. I would definitely need to be taking notes at this dinner. I would also take the liberty of cooking them Mexican food then proceed to watch their minds and taste buds explode!

Carli: Thank you for taking the time to listen! It really means the world to me that someone out there that I don’t know has listened to my song. Connect with me, especially if you’re a songwriter. We’re all in this together!