Eli Lev

Still taking this in…

Winning 3 Wammies means a lot, but not just for the reasons you might think.

In this video, I break down something that’s been sitting with me:

Past Lives is only 5 songs. No filler. Just songs that felt necessary: rooted in story, identity, and reflection.

And somehow… that cut through.

It makes me wonder if we being pushed too hard as artists to make music that fits playlists instead of saying something real?

Maybe there is more space for depth, risk, and truth in songwriting right now?

Because if this moment says anything to me, it’s this:
There is still room for music that goes deeper and people are listening.

Huge respect to the and the community for recognizing that kind of work. That matters more than the award itself.

For me, the lesson is clear:
Keep making what feels important.
Keep telling the stories that are uncomfortable, human, and rooted in something real, whether that’s personal history, cultural identity, or bigger social questions.

If you haven’t heard Past Lives yet, it’s all there. Link in bio.

I’d genuinely love to hear your take:

What do you think about the current state of the music industry? Are artists being pushed toward sameness or is there still space for originality?

Thank you for listening and happy to get the conversation going 🙏

WE ARE TRIPLE WAMMIE WINNERS!!! 🏆🏆🏆

Is it possible to LEVITATE any higher?! Last night at the 37th Annual WAMMIE Awards, surrounded by the incredible DC/MD/VA music community, we took home three major honors:

🏆 Best Folk/Bluegrass Artist (Eli Lev)
🏆 Best Folk/Bluegrass Album (Past Lives)
🏆 Best Country/Americana Song (Where We Come From)

The official theme for this year’s awards was “Life, Legacy & Lyrics.” Since Past Lives is so deeply rooted in family lineage and history, having my mom and dad right by my side to experience this was a full-circle moment I will never forget. This music is a testament to them, and sharing that room with them was the ultimate reward. I was verklempt! 🥹

But I’ve got to be real with you, this incredible honor is a testament to every single one of you who believed in the Past Lives album. Whether you fund the journey monthly on Patreon, backed the Kickstarter last year that brought this record into the world, or if you stream the songs, like and share my posts, drop comments, and send me direct messages of encouragement: you are the reason this independent musician path is sustainable! These awards belong to too 🙏💫🎶

It was also an absolute honor to celebrate the DMV scene and share the room with so many incredible friends, fellow honorees, and artists. Massive love and congratulations to Jillian Matundan Music, Valeria Music, LJR , Emma G , DMV Music Alliance , and Jason Masi! 🎶🎉

A huge thank you to The Wammie Awards and the The MusicianShip for putting on an unforgettable night and continuing to uplift our local creators.

COMING SOON:

With “Where We Come From” taking home Best Country/Americana Song, the timing could not be more perfect. The official music video is releasing soon! I am so moved by the 60 incredible entries you all submitted for this participatory project, and I cannot wait until you see all the beautiful stories of our collective heritage woven together on screen.

LET’S CELEBRATE TODAY! 🎉

👇 Drop a comment below and let me know: what is your absolute favorite track on the album right now?

With immense gratitude,
💛 Eli