Elmiene: The Unignorable New Voice of British R&B

A Journey from Humble Beginnings

Born in Frankfurt to Sudanese parents and raised in Oxford, Elmiene, whose real name is Abdala Elamin, never envisioned a life in music. At 24, he reflects on his childhood with a sense of disbelief. “I thought I’d probably just be a security guard,” he recalls, viewing singing as merely a party trick to impress family at gatherings. Despite encouragement from relatives to pursue music, he remained skeptical of his talent.

The Awakening of a Musical Talent

Elmiene’s journey into music began in earnest during his second year at Bournemouth University, where he studied creative writing. An offhand comment from a friend ignited a spark within him. “How good do you think you sing compared to your favourite artist?” she asked, prompting him to reconsider his abilities. This moment led to a series of stripped-back cover performances that would change his life.

His cover of D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel?)” in 2021 became a viral sensation on social media, catching the attention of industry heavyweights like Missy Elliott and Pharrell Williams. This newfound recognition opened doors, leading him to create original music.

Crafting a Unique Sound

Elmiene’s debut single, “Golden,” marked a significant turning point in his career. The track is characterized by its warm, lived-in quality, blending delicate melodies with a rich, velvety voice. It encapsulates his journey of learning to translate raw emotion into structured songwriting. “Poetry lets you fly; songwriting helps you land,” he explains, highlighting the balance he strikes between artistic freedom and discipline.

Following “Golden,” Elmiene released four critically acclaimed EPs, including “El-Mean” and “Marking My Time.” Each project showcased his growth as an artist, refining his instincts while maintaining a connection to his roots.

Recognition and Accolades

As Elmiene’s profile grew, so did the accolades. He was featured on the BBC Sound Of… list and shortlisted for the BRITs Rising Star award. His music resonated with audiences, leading to nominations for the Outstanding New Artist award at the NAACP Image Awards and Best Male Act at the MOBOs. “It’s nice to know that it’s possible for someone from Sudan to have an impact in the mainstream world,” he reflects, acknowledging the significance of his journey.

Embracing Duality in Music

With the release of his debut mixtape, “Heat The Streets,” Elmiene began to explore a more pop-conscious R&B sound. Collaborating with artists like Jordan Ward and Ghostface Killah, he expanded his musical palette while retaining the emotional depth that defines his work. “I learned that I could tap into that, too. I don’t have to always be miserable,” he shares, emphasizing the importance of balancing lightness with depth.

The Upcoming Album: “Sounds For Someone”

As Elmiene prepares for the release of his debut album, “Sounds For Someone,” he reflects on the personal nature of his music. The lead single, “Crying Against The Wind,” is a poignant tribute to his father, showcasing his ability to weave personal narratives into his art. “I’m on a search for completeness,” he says, revealing the introspective nature of the album.

His latest single, “Reclusive,” captures the duality of his personality. While the lyrics may convey sadness, Elmiene insists that the music itself is infused with joy. “Sometimes when I listen back, I just have to shut up and go: ‘I like the groove, I like the bassline, I like the drums,’” he explains, illustrating his ability to find beauty in complexity.

The Legacy of Soul and R&B

Elmiene’s appreciation for the rich history of Black music informs his artistry. He draws inspiration from legends like James Brown and Stevie Wonder, as well as contemporary artists who have shaped the genre. “You need a movement to make a movement,” he asserts, recognizing the collective effort required to elevate R&B and soul in today’s music landscape.

A Bright Future Ahead

With “Sounds For Someone” set to release on March 27 via Polydor/Def Jam Recordings, Elmiene stands at the forefront of a new wave of British R&B. His journey from obscurity to recognition serves as a testament to the power of authenticity in music. As he prepares to share his story with the world, Elmiene embodies the spirit of a generation ready to make its mark on the global stage.