By Lauren Root – Staff Writer  

Photo courtesy of Eli Lev

Eli Lev is a Silver Spring, Maryland native whose current tour “2024 Present Journey Fall Tour” brought him to Le Murdoch in Sherbrooke on September 26 where he was able to perform in front of his fan base, known as the “Levitators.” The critically acclaimed singer has had a few different career paths, and after teaching English in several countries, Eli made the decision to become a full-time musician. 

Music has always been a source of therapy for Eli, helping him to navigate emotions and life’s challenges.  He would play songs for friends and family, which helped him to gain confidence and experience. After completing an English degree, Eli became an English school teacher in a northern Arizona town called Shonto, on a Navajo reservation. Later, he lived in Andorra and Israel, helping to create bonds and expand his worldly view. However, Eli’s ultimate decision to leave teaching behind and become a full-time musician came on a beach retreat to Sayulita, Mexico, where he had a spiritual awakening. It was then that Eli decided to follow his true passion (no matter the risk) and pursue music as his career. While he was nervous about this career shift, he knew he had to follow his love for music, and to trust that he would be able to find success. 

Eli hopes to share his journey with younger musicians, and to encourage them to pursue their passions. That is why Eli chose to add a tour date in Sherbrooke, where he is hoping to connect with Bishop’s students and share both his story and his music. Eli is hoping to share his story with all students, not only those in a music major, since anyone (in any field of study) can eventually work in the music industry.

When asked about what advice he has for Bishop’s students who are aspiring musicians, Eli advised: “there are thousands of different positions in the music industry” for those who are questioning a career in music. Expanding on that idea, he continued: “There are singers, there are instrumentalists, there is sound, there is lights, there’s agents, there are managers.” He wishes to convey the variety of roles that the music industry holds, offering plenty of opportunities to begin a career, or to change pathways while still being involved with music. Eli explains that it is okay to take risks when it comes to your career, and to not let a fear of failure hold you back, saying: “And if [you] like music, then yeah, make a go of it and see if that fits.” In addition, Eli mentioned that if students find themselves interested in other parts of the industry, it can be just as fulfilling and just as important in bringing art into their communities. 

Eli Lev will be continuing his tour “2024 Present Journey Fall Tour” across North America and venturing to Europe next year, where he hopes to continue sharing his music and journey. Eli is always open to connecting with Bishop’s students to help inspire them to follow their musical aspirations and to continue spreading joy through music. 

Photo courtesy of Eli Lev