Today we’d like to introduce you to Ellen Hinton.
Ellen, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have always been around music for as long as I can remember. My mom sings, my dad plays the bass, my sisters sing and play instruments as well. We are a musical family. I remember singing with them. There were always pianos, guitars, and other instruments in the house.
From a very young age I just really loved music. I performed in choirs in school and church, and for a little while, I tried some different avenues that really didn’t fit.
Somehow I found music again. I taught elementary music, piano lessons, and taught church choirs. I encouraged so many great students to pursue their dream so I decided to take my own advice.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I was shy growing up but music was my outlet. It really helped me get out my thoughts and well as dealing with life. When there is a lot going on music is still a safe place for me. I found out after a close friend of mine passed away when I was younger that music can bring people together. It can make someone’s day a little brighter. Although we all have different experiences, our emotions like sadness, pain, and even happiness are universal. I feel so lucky that I’m able to connect with people through music. Maybe I can write something that may give a little hope.
The music business is definitely a challenge. It’s a rollercoaster. I’ve had so many opportunities fall through just when it was in arms reach. It can be heartbreaking. There are always sketchy people waiting to take advantage if you’re not careful, but it’s not easy for anybody. Sometimes I have to unplug for a bit and really focus on what’s important. I spend time with my family, friends or play with my little ones. Sometimes I’ll get a message from someone who was touched my music and it makes my day.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Ellen Once Again story. Tell us more about the business.
When I get asked about my music, I tell people that I make music that feels like sunshine even in the rain. When I perform or if you meet me, I’m always talking about chasing your dreams. You get one life to make a difference. I love making music. I’ve gotten to hear my songs on a Hershey’s commercial, Dance Moms, Hand of God and several other shows. The thing that inspires me the most is when I hear that a song I wrote gave someone hope, made them happy, or helped them through a tough time. I recently got a chance to speak to an auditorium full of young bright-eyed students and tell them that they are not too young to follow their passions and start making it happen today. This is why I feel so lucky to do what I do.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I feel like I have experienced both. I’ve had several opportunities to have my songs heard on tv/film and commercials, but there were a lot of opportunities that for some reason or another I wasn’t able to do that turned out to be a big deal. More than luck, I believe that if you work hard that your gift will make room for you. I try not to focus on the past but look ahead for what is coming.
source: http://voyagedallas.com/interview/meet-ellen-hinton-ellen-grand-prairie/
