Eleanor Lee, welcome! Your diverse career in acting, songwriting, and painting is truly impressive. We’ll begin with your musical journey. At 13, you started writing songs by ear. What ignited that initial spark, and what was your very first song about?
I wrote about a guy, obviously. Hahaha, love is an international common language, so it’s best to start there. I had a crush on someone for four years, but I never got to tell him or be with him. It was my first crush, and afterward, I realized I’m good at expressing my feelings through songs.
Many artists find inspiration in their personal experiences. How much of your music reflects your own life and emotions? Are there any specific songs that are particularly personal to you?
That is very true. My music is like my diary. As everyone knows, my very first inspiration is Taylor Swift. I love how, when you listen to her songs at every era and stage of your life, you can relate to them and listen to them like a diary. I’m not very good at expressing my feelings and emotions; I find it hard to put them into words. But I discovered that when I write music, I can do so. I recently released “Change,” which I wrote in 2021 when I was dealing with severe depression and anxiety. I felt like I was hurting everyone around me, though I didn’t mean to. However, those who understand me know how hard it was for me. So, that song was more of a thank-you to those who stood by my side and put up with me. I want to let them know that I’m strong and that I could change.
Spotify link for the song “Change”
What are your hopes and dreams for your music career? What kind of impact do you want your music to have on your listeners?
Honestly I think every singer wishes their music can make a big change, I just want my music help and inspire people the way it inspires me. I want to write songs people can relate to, if they are going through the same and let them know they are not alone..
Your role in “The Big Boss” propelled your popularity in 2017. What was that experience like? How did it shape your career?
It was actually my first female role, so I suppose I was quite fortunate that it became popular. It’s a comedy for children, and my aim was simply to bring laughter, as I love making people happy, much like my name suggests. It did propel me into the acting industry, and it has truly shaped me. I feel that I am very versatile, like a shape-shifter, able to transform and adapt to any role or persona when I choose to.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your acting career? How have you overcome them?
I believe the greatest challenge is overcoming the fear of others’ opinions. Many people advise me to be myself and not to care, but my job is to care. My job is to make you like me, so I do care. Sometimes I bottle up many emotions and become quite depressed when I receive negative comments. However, I think I’m at a new stage in my life where I’ve begun to separate my job from my personal life. Of course, my entire life revolves around my career, so it can become quite complex at times. But I’m managing it.
Outside of your creative work, what are some of your passions and interests? What do you do to relax and recharge?
Honestly my whole life revolves around art, I write songs, paint and do a lot of art and crafts. Not only does it help with recharging but, it’s one of my passions. I’m known to do a lot of things with my hands. Hahahaha
Is there a project you’re particularly excited about right now, whether it’s a song, a role, or a painting?
There are! I have also most up to 10 unaired projects. But I’m not in a place to say which yet, everyone worked hard on it, just my personal preference should not affect the hard work of others.
I’m excited to announce that I’ve released a new song, ‘My Colors.’ I wrote it in 2020 when I was stuck with a label company that promised things it didn’t deliver. Now that I’m free, I’m going to release as many songs as I can from the vault.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give to young artists who are just starting out?
I would say, simply believe and just do it. Never live life with regrets; if not now, then when? So what if you didn’t receive a standing ovation for this performance or project? You did your best. You will find your people and those who appreciate you. When there are people who like you, there will inevitably be those who don’t, and that’s okay.
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