ELIJAH WOODS RELEASES HIS NEW EMOTIONAL EP ELIJAH WOULD! - INTERVIEW

Photo by George Pimentel

Elijah Woods is back with his brand-new EP, Elijah Would! Don’t let the clever title mislead you; this collection of songs is deeply heartfelt and introspective. Each track reveals an intimate side of the artist, blending elements of indie rock with nostalgic pop melodies. The result is a captivating sonic experience that resonates emotionally, showcasing Woods’ growth and vulnerability as a musician. The six-track EP delves into the complexities of growing older, making it an ideal listen for young adults navigating new challenges as well as for those reflecting on their past. With its poignant themes and relatable lyrics, this collection resonates across generations, inviting listeners to explore the universal journey of life and self-discovery. We got a chance to ask Elijah about what it took to create this body of work:

Your track "What It Means" was written about your personal experience that you faced over the last year. Can you tell us more about that?

“What It Means” is really a reflection of the past year of my life. Turning 30 made me take a step back and think about everything I've done, the people I've met, and those who have stuck around, as well as the choices I’ve made to get to this point. I felt a little bit unsure of what my next step forward was on this journey of being a human being, which is what this song is kind of all about. The song captures that uncertainty, but also the realization I came to: it's okay to be imperfect and embrace the different chapters of your life. Being human is messy, but you have to take the good with the bad.

Your new EP Elijah Would! just dropped. What is your current favorite track off of it and why?

Honestly, it changes all the time, but right now, my favorite is “Skin & Bones.” I wrote it with my wife just two days before our wedding, and it really captures that exact moment in our lives. It was the first time we ever wrote together, so it’s incredibly special to both of us.

Whats the biggest hurdle you had to face writing the EP or in the production of it?

The biggest hurdle with 'Elijah Would!' and the EP before that, 'Hey There Elijah,' was figuring out whether to make it a full-length album or two separate EPs. I initially set out with the intention of making it one cohesive album, but as I finished up the project and listened back, it just didn’t flow like one continuous body of work. It didn't quite feel like it was what I wanted to present as my debut album. That realization was a bit of a kick to my ego after investing so much time into writing, producing, and recording these songs. But in the end, I think it worked out for the best. Releasing them as two distinct projects allowed each set of songs to stand on their own while still playing off each other.

What is the significance of the details on your album art like the blue house and the night sky? Is it a continuation of bright orange everglow?

The artwork for ‘Hey There Elijah’ and ‘Elijah Would!’ features the cabin where I spent a lot of time during my childhood. It was this tiny, off-the-grid place—only about 200 square feet—with no running water, power, or electricity. We even had an outhouse! Later on, we turned it into a recording studio and rehearsal space on my dad’s property. It’s a really meaningful place to me because it’s where I was first introduced to a lot of music and it’s even where I recorded my first song on a 4-track tape recorded. Since these projects were all about re-centering myself, using the cabin as the album art felt like the perfect choice—it’s a place that truly feels like home.

What's the biggest takeaway you want fans to have after listening to the EP?

I hope that after listening to this EP, my fans feel like they know me a little better. The thing about releasing music is that once it’s out, it’s no longer just mine—it belongs to everyone who listens to it. My goal with these songs was to pour as much of myself into them as possible and be completely vulnerable about what I was feeling and going through at that time. I hope listeners can connect with that honesty, see themselves in these songs, and relate to what I've been going through during this chapter of my life.

You wrote "Skin and Bones" with your wife Hannah right before getting married. Congratulations! What is it like working on projects with your significant other?

It’s pretty weird, but it’s also really fun! Hannah isn’t a songwriter or producer—she doesn’t even work in the arts at all. But that’s what made it so special. Writing with someone outside of the industry can be so refreshing because they don’t have the pressure or agenda to make something spectacular that professional songwriters often do. You end up getting these amazingly simple and genuinely human lyrics that end up being really, really good. We wrote this song two days before our wedding so we had so much love in our hearts at that specific moment. It made the whole experience incredibly special, and it’s something I’ll hold on to forever.

You recently moved to LA. What has that process been like and are you enjoying the city?

Yes, we just moved to LA in October! So far it’s been a lot of setting things up, building furniture, and getting my studio together. We’re being really intentional with all of the pieces we put into this house because we love it so much and want it to truly feel like home. It’s definitely been a lot of work, but it’s finally starting to come together. I can get pretty obsessive with things, so I’ve been diving headfirst into decorating—maybe even a little too much! I’ve been a bit more relaxed on the work front while I settle into life here, but that’s okay. It all ebbs and flows naturally.

The year is almost over. What goals are you hoping to achieve in 2025?

I’ve got some pretty ambitious goals for 2025, but they’re still taking shape, so I don’t want to share too many details just yet. One thing I’m always focused on, though, is continuing to grow a genuine fanbase—people who really see me for who I am and can find connection and community in the music. I’m so proud of the little community that’s formed around my music; it’s all about love and respect. Whether it’s on social media or in real life, it feels like everyone’s just there to support each other, and that sense of being seen and safe is something I really want to keep nurturing in 2025. I’m also loving life in Los Angeles, so I’m excited to spend more time here next year. And I’d love to do another tour in 2025 too!

What artists are currently inspiring you?

I’m really into Mk.gee right now. He’s doing something super cool and different—it’s sort of a blend of The Police and Frank Ocean. It’s so unique, and I love how fresh it feels. Lately, I’ve also been listening to a lot of older, guitar-based music like Jeff Beck.

What advice do you have for artists who are just starting out in their career?

Just keep going. The journey can be tough, but if you don’t quit, you can’t fail—that’s been my mantra over the years. Also, be yourself, but remember that being yourself is a lifelong process. We’re constantly evolving and going through new chapters, so embrace those changes as they come. And while it might sound simple, always remind yourself why you make music in the first place. Keep finding excitement, passion, and love in what you do.

Thank you Elijah and Tallulah PR for making this interview possible!

To keep up with Elijah follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahwoodsmusic/?hl=en