MADAMENOIRE Honorable Mentions Presents: Elle Varner

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Elle Varner is a singer, songwriter and producer with Grammy and BET Awards nominations and wins under her belt, including her 2017 win with Chance the Rapper for the mixtape Coloring Book. Varner grew up in Brooklyn, NY and eventually moved to Los Angeles. She was born into the music industry and has always been around it. Her mother and father are singers, songwriters and publishers who worked with the likes of Barry White and Kool & the Gang.

The young talent grew up in that world and recalls casually hanging out on the set of Janet Jackson’s rehearsals after school.

It wasn’t until she learned of Missy Elliott and Diane Warren that Varner realized women could be producers. She says, “[They] were the first women that I knew of who produced. I didn’t know that was a thing.” That’s when she felt that a career in producing was a possibility for her, too.

Many women have inspired Varner along the way, including Alicia Keys and Mary J. Blige. She specifically recalls a special moment, after winning her Grammy, when Beyonce came up to her and told her she’d done a great job — and she nearly fainted. These are just some of the women Varner says “nudged” her to keep going.

As for her current favorite artists, Varner names Doja Cat, SZA and Mariah the Scientist. She likes their unique styles and authenticity.

“I appreciate what the new girls are bringing. They’re bringing honesty…it’s a different approach to making music,” says Varner.

There are many women Varner would love to honor, but for this dedication, she has one special artist in mind.

“I’m gonna have to give my toast to a young lady named Muni Long,” says Varner. “You are such an inspiration to me and so many other women in this industry. Please keep going. Don’t ever stop.”

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