I'm Effie, singer/songwriter from Los Angeles, but currently based in Mexico (because why not live out the apocalypse by the beach?) I was on American Idol season 1 for ABC's revival back in 2018, where I placed at exactly top 20. Since then, I've been able to perform all over the world, as well as on many different studio projects.
I'm a classically trained singer, but am able to perform many different genres. Whether you want an EDM vibe, or a big voiced Adele- I've got you covered. I mostly shine the brightest with ballads, but don't shy away from other styles. Personally, I write a lot of Tori Amos inspired music, but also have 3 different musicals I am working on.
I've worked in kids music, too , so if you need a Disney princess sound, I'm also well known for that.
You can find me on Instagram @effiepassero if you want an insight into what I've been doing, and to see some small music performance videos.
Send me a note through the contact button above.
Credits
Interview with Effie Passero
Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?
A: I wrote a one man musical theatre-esque show. It was a ton of work, but I'm proud of each song. Hearing him sing my music for the first time was so bizarre, yet breathtaking. Realizing that someone enjoys your music enough to sing it with so much emotion and vulnerability is humbling. We're hoping to bring it to life next year on a stage.
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A: I'm working on my batman villain musical.
Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?
A: Not really. Just learned about this site!
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: I'm still learning, so I don't have a preference yet!
Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?
A: I will work my damndest, sing my hardest, and write earnestly.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: I love that this is the way I get to express things. Through music! Whether it's mine or someone else's. It's also really awesome to bring other peoples work to life. I love seeing people become emotional after hearing someone sing their music for the first time.
Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?
A: Mostly I just get questions about American Idol. I tell them my experience and what I learned from it.
Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?
A: That every song I write comes out in 5 minutes, ready to ship out and be sold for a million bucks. sometimes it takes 10. But really, some projects come easier than others. Not everything is simple.
Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?
A: I ask them what they're looking for, of course, and what they're trying to get out of their project. If they're trying to shop it, and to whom, because I'm always honest with someone if I don't think my voice is the right fit for who they're thinking of.
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Hire people who move you. Choose the people who really have a voice you enjoy.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: My computer My usb mic my in ear monitors my keyboard Interface Would I be able to bring all the respective cords or are those their own item??
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: I started performing when I was 5. Did local theatre and voice lessons til I was about 11, and then I upped it a notch and began opera training at 12. From 12-24 I studied opera and performed in various productions in California. I dropped out of college at Cal State Fullerton at 19, but continued my studies because I realized the knowledge was priceless. After I dropped out, I got heavily into songwriting and just never stopped! I have about 500 songs now.
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: I'm like a chameleon. I don't think I have one particular style. I like to keep people on their toes.
Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?
A: Pharrell. I hear he's a wonderful guy, and he's just so full of knowledge. In terms of really creating music, I'd love to work with Trent Reznor one day. I just really love his entire vibe and have been in love with his music since I was young. On the performance front: Lady Gaga. I think we'd be epic together!
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: Really get to know your own voice. Once you know how to mix your voice things get easier.
Q: What type of music do you usually work on?
A: I don't think I'd call what I write pop, so I'd say mostly Singer/Songwriter. I also write a lot of musical theatre.
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: I'm definitely a strong singer, but I'm proud of the music I write as well.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: I have a unique sound, so I can bring a lot of depth and a breath of fresh air into a song. If I'm writing, I bring lyrics that aren't too contrived, or too on the nose, that have real meaning and can evoke a lot of different emotions.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: Depends on the project, but I like to be really hands on with clients and get as much detail about what they want, so I can ensure that they're happy with the result!
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: Right now, I'm recording with the bare minimum. I have my keyboard, interface and an Apogee 96k USB microphone
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Producers: Pharrell, Trent Reznor, Paul Epworth, Spike Stent Musicians: Tori Amos, Lady Gaga, Brenden Urie, Adele, Alicia Keys, Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, Carole King, Bob Dylan, Bilie Joel and Elton John
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: I write top lines, or do demo work.
- Top line writer (vocal melody)Average price - $300 per song
- Songwriter - LyricAverage price - $200 per song
- Songwriter - MusicAverage price - $200 per song
- Singer - FemaleAverage price - $300 per song
- Adele
- Kelly Clarkson
- Tori Amos
