By: Andrew Ellington

Andrew Ellington, born on April 3, 1992, in Asheville, has woven a rich tapestry of musical and entrepreneurial achievements throughout his life. Discovering his passion for music at the tender age of three, Andrew embarked on a journey that saw him performing nationally by 13, and later, forming the acclaimed Boston live hip-hop band, Viva La Hop, during his tenure at Berklee College of Music. Transitioning from performance to music promotion and production in Brooklyn, he later founded Ellington Underground in Asheville, a nexus for musical innovation. Currently, as Director of Strategic Development and Senior Agent at Atomic Music Group, Andrew champions artist representation while advocating for mental health awareness within the music industry, embodying a holistic approach to his lifelong commitment to the arts.

Q&A with Andrew Ellington, Asheville North Carolina

Andrew, your musical journey began quite early. What was it like discovering your love for music at such a young age?

Discovering my love for music at three was like finding a part of myself that I didn’t know was missing. Grabbing those drumsticks for the first time felt natural, almost instinctive. It set me on a path that has been both challenging and rewarding. Having a grandfather who was deeply involved in music definitely played a huge role; it felt like I was continuing a legacy.

By age 13, you were already touring nationally with “Mirth Remedy.” How did that experience shape your future in music?

Touring with Mirth Remedy at such a young age was an incredible learning experience. It taught me discipline, the importance of teamwork, and the realities of life on the road. It was during this time that I truly understood the power of live performance and the connection it can create with an audience. That experience has been a cornerstone of my career.

Your time at Berklee College of Music seems to have been pivotal. Can you share more about how it influenced your career?

Berklee was transformative. It was there that I really honed my skills not just in performance, but in the business aspects of music. Forming “Viva La Hop” and being recognized as Boston’s best live hip-hop band was a testament to the hard work and creativity of everyone involved. Berklee taught me the importance of innovation and persistence in this industry.

Transitioning from performing to producing and promoting shows in Brooklyn, what motivated this shift in focus?

The shift to producing and promoting shows was a natural progression in my career. After performing and touring, I was curious about the other side of the music industry. I wanted to understand what goes into making shows happen behind the scenes. This curiosity led me to Brooklyn, where I had the opportunity to work with various clubs and festivals. It was a chance to shape the music scene from a different angle.

Opening Ellington Underground in Asheville must have been a significant milestone. What inspired you to create this music club?

Returning to Asheville and opening Ellington Underground was like coming full circle. I wanted to create a space that reflected my experiences and learnings from over the years. The club is a homage to my roots, a platform for artists, and a contribution to the local music scene. It’s a place where creativity and community come together, embodying everything I love about music.

Your work with Atomic Music Group as “Director of Strategic Development” and “Senior Agent” involves diversifying the agency’s roster. How do you approach this role, especially in today’s music landscape?

In today’s diverse music landscape, it’s crucial to stay ahead of trends while also honoring timeless talents. My approach involves a mix of scouting emerging artists with unique sounds and working with established names to create new opportunities. It’s about balancing innovation with tradition, ensuring that we’re representing a wide array of genres and talents.

Lastly, advocating for mental health and wellness in the music industry is commendable. How do you see this advocacy impacting the industry?

The music industry can be incredibly demanding, often leading to anxiety and other mental health struggles. By advocating for mental health and wellness, I hope to foster a more supportive and understanding environment. Education and awareness are key in breaking the stigma and ensuring that individuals feel supported. It’s about creating a healthier, more sustainable industry for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Early Exposure to Music Shapes Career Paths: Andrew Ellington’s musical journey underscores the impact of early exposure to music on career development. From wielding drumsticks at three to touring nationally by thirteen, his formative years played a crucial role in shaping his passion and career in the music industry.
• The Importance of Diversification in Music Careers: Andrew’s career trajectory from performing with “Viva La Hop” to music promotion and production, and eventually to strategic development and talent representation, illustrates the importance of diversification. His ability to navigate various facets of the music industry highlights the value of versatility and adaptability for longevity and success in the field.
• Advocacy for Mental Health in the Music Industry: Beyond his musical and entrepreneurial endeavors, Andrew’s advocacy for mental health and wellness within the music industry is a critical takeaway. His commitment to raising awareness and education on the mental health struggles faced by industry professionals emphasizes the need for a supportive and understanding community, showcasing his holistic approach to his career and personal values.

Published by: Martin De Juan