Rock Monsters Romania

The underground…the start for thousands of amazing stories, but also a place where many artists and bands just give up their dreams because they didn’t have a chance to prove the world that they are good enough to be heard on the biggest radio stations. Two of my favorite rock bands, Envoi and Stria, are good examples of this phenomenon.

We are all encouraging kids to follow their dreams, but, unfortunately, their dreams are destroyed soon by recordings studios or by people who discourage them.

Everybody should get a chance, but how are we going to do this? In my opinion, the festivals should make a day special for these underground artists, without fees for the tickets, the big bands should take 2-3 underground artists to open their shows and “normal” people should share their impressions to all who are interested when they find a new band.

But is this enough? I’ve decided to talked to an underground artist with huge potential about her career. Elizabeth is a blue-hair guitarist from Washington DC. I’ve found her about one year and a half ago, when I’ve heard her amazing covers. If you don’t trust me check her and her band on Instagram (@elizabethiimusic) or Youtube (Elizabeth II).

RM: Why have you started playing the guitar? 

Elizabeth: When I was younger i really liked to sing and write my own songs! The only problem was that I didn’t know how to play an instrument to help me put instrumentation behind my songs, so I picked up the guitar!

RM: Who are your rock stars idols / band idols? 

Elizabeth: I am obsessed with Mateus Asato and Nick Johnston’s guitar playing. They both have amazing tone and feel and whenever I hear them play, it inspires me to practice more.

RM: Who supported you all the way?

Elizabeth: My wonderful parents.

RM: Have you ever had hard moments in your career? 

Elizabeth: Certainly. It’s really easy to become de-motivated and feel like the big picture is impossible to get to, but you just gotta take a deep breath sometimes and take it one step at a time.

RM: Do people recognize you on the street?

Elizabeth: Maybe once or twice when I’m just out and about. If anything I mostly get recognized when I’m attending music events.

RM: Have you encountered any prejudices in your career?

Elizabeth: Most definitely. It hasn’t happened too often because I try to surround myself with respectable people, but every now and then I’ll meet the occasional guy who “mansplains” basic guitar concepts that I’m already well acquainted with.

RM:What inspires you to continue playing the guitar?

Elizabeth: Genuinely just wanting to be a better player. I try to surround myself with players that I consider better than me in order to challenge and push myself to work harder.

RM: What advices would you give to the young children that dream about being rock stars? 

Elizabeth: Never stop working! Try out new genres and techniques that you’re not comfortable with. Challenge yourself!

RM:  What is your message for all your fans and people who are going to read this article? 

Elizabeth: Thank you for all your support! My goal is to put out music that will inspire and help others express themselves, so I hope I’ve accomplished that for you!

RM: Thank you for your interview!

With hard work and dedication everything is possible, but everybody can help. One sentence like “X is a very good band” or “Check Y, he/she is very good” is not hard, but it means hope for them.