Lily Elise, a former member of Youth in Arts a cappella group `Til Dawn (2005-2009), is currently living in Los Angeles pursuing her career as a singing artist. In 2009, Lily was accepted into the selective inaugural Pop Music program at USC’s Thornton School of Music, a major with a faculty of renowned musicians and industry professionals. While at USC Lily had the opportunity to sing backups for Steve Miller in concert, work closely with Patrice Rushen, Lamont Dozier of the Motown songwriting team Holland-Dozier-Holland in several master classes, and play for songwriting and performing legend Randy Newman. Faculty also includes bassist Alphonso Johnson, Drummer Leon ‘Ndugu’ Chancler , songwriter Melissa Manchester and more. Given all the talent in this USC program, students naturally and quickly formed bands. Lily is one of the founding members of the alternative hip-hop band, The Beat Advocate. Their first EP includes their award-winning song, “The Other Side”.
In early 2011, Lily was offered an opportunity to audition for “The Voice” by a local industry professional who had heard her perform. After an experience she’ll never forget, long weeks auditioning, working with the production and waiting on the announcements for artists who made the cut, she learned she was selected to compete in the blind auditions. Lily performed her audition song, “Ain’t No Other Man” by Alicia Keys, to the backs of four chairs, on the second episode of The Voice which aired May 3 on NBC. A life long dream to perform for her idol, Christina Aguilera, was coming true. Lily’s vocals impressed her idol, and although she wasn’t selected in the first audition round, “Xtina” as she is called by her fans, voiced her regrets. Lily was given a second chance after the coaches hadn’t filled up their teams and all the artists had auditioned. In the last moments, without rehearsal, Lily selected her second chance song, and got the chair with her idol Xtina to turn around, choosing Lily for her team. Christina smiled and said, “I got you! I got you back! Just come give me a hug. You know you’re mine, I know I’m yours. You got a second chance!”
“The Voice” has three phases, the blind auditions to select the teams, the battles to reduce the teams by half, and then live shows. Lily will battle her friend and country songstress Cherie Oakley on May 31, on NBC at 10pm. Live performances start on June 7. To keep up with this talented Youth in Arts alum, visit her on her website join her on facebook and twitter.
Update: Lily was selected in the battle round and will be part of Christina’s team for the live performances, the next phase of the competition! Congratulations, Lily!