We think recording artist, producer and author London Elixir should release a self-help concept album titled The Blueprint LX. She’s clearly created and followed her own well-crafted guide to entrepreneurial success.
The critically acclaimed Ohio native is often praised for her sonic brilliance, uplifting outreach, stylish personality, and dedicated-to-excellence work ethic. She gives God the glory and shares its enrichment in her book Prayed Time Off.
London Elixir took time out her busy schedule to answer our “2020 Twenty Questions” questionnaire! We hope THIS INTERVIEW entertains and inspires you.
On a scale of 1 to 10 how happy are you to be alive?
10!
As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be in the WNBA because I started playing basketball when I was five.
What was your favorite cartoon?
Spongebob Squarepants! I still watch it!
Tell us your favorite song as a kid, as a teenager, and now as an adult.
As a kid, Ciara’s “1, 2 Step”.
As a teen, Chris Brown’s “Run It”.
As an adult, right now, I like “Do It” by Chloe x Halle.
What’s an album that means more to you now than it did when you first heard it?
Kirk Franklin’s The Nu Nation Project. My mom used to play this album every Sunday on the way to church when I was a kid. So, I know a good handful of those songs by heart. As an adult, I can relate more to the subject matter of the songs now that I’ve had my own life experiences.
What are your 3 favorite movies?
Malibu’s Most Wanted, Beyond The Lights, and Love & Basketball.
What’s the last film that made you cry or almost cry, and what scene did it?
Honestly, I cry at almost any movie. Especially when good things happen!
What’s your all-time favorite TV show?
Living Single. That show is hilarious.
Which character on that show do you identify with most?
I identify most with Khadija because she is an entrepreneur like myself.
What makes you laugh out loud or smile uncontrollably every time you see it or hear it?
My nephew makes me smile every time I see him! He is the cutest little baby.
Who in your family served you the most delicious, unforgettable dish you’ve ever eaten?
My grandma in Nashville makes these chess pies. OMG, delicious!
Tell us the most nutritious thing you’ve fed your mind.
Honestly, the bible. Specifically, James 1:12. Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the LORD has promised to those who love him.
When did you start to understand your value?
My mom has always been very encouraging. So, I’ve known my value as a person since I was young. Being brought up in church taught me the value of being a child of God. The school I went to from 7th grade through high school taught me about the value of my heritage.
Lastly, my first music mentor, Joey Gurwin, taught me how to value myself as a producer.
Who is the G.O.A.T. of your profession?
Timbaland!
He is so dope because his sound is so unique. He was also able to produce great music for a variety of artists which solidifies his versatility. Not to mention what he’s doing now with the Verzuz battles on Instagram and his online production classes.
Do you aspire to be like them or more like someone you have a stronger personal connection to?
Honestly, I don’t aspire to be like anybody.
Limiting yourself to someone else’s purpose can hold you back from your own destiny. Don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of great people, but they are great because they followed their own purpose.
I believe God has so much for everyone individually. We don’t need to be like anyone but ourselves in our full potential.
Recall for us the first time you failed. What lesson did you learn from that?
When I was in high school, I created this event called “Columbus Teen Idol” in my hometown [of Columbus, Ohio]. I partnered with The Funny Bone in Easton Mall. It was basically a big talent show for teenagers. I threw 4 events from the time I was 15 to 18.
One time there was some confusion as to who was supposed to check for tickets at the door. I thought the comedy club had people checking and the comedy club thought I had people checking. Long story short, the event was packed but a lot of people got in for free. So, it should have been a sold out event but we ended up only breaking even.
I was 16 at the time and it was my second event. This was a failure to me because the first event sold out and our profit was pretty nice. So, to go from that to breaking even because of a minor oversight was a disappointment.
This situation taught me that I have to always double check roles and responsibilities when I throw an event because even though I was only 16, I was still in charge.
In what way have you evolved over the last 12 months?
I became a published author!
I released my first book, PTO: Prayed Time Off, recently where I share my experience of leaving my 9 to 5 to become a full-time entrepreneur.
I never planned on being an author before, so this definitely showed me a new side to myself. This book is great for anyone desiring to walk in their true purpose!
You can get it at www.LondonElixir.com/pto
When was a time that someone you didn’t know did something nice for you? What did they do?
You reached out to me for this interview! Thank you!
How would you explain to someone the importance of valuing their time?
Time is something you can’t get back so it’s important to use it wisely. Don’t waste it on things of little or no value. Always consider the return on your investment.
What’s been the biggest blessing of your life?
Taking a leap of faith by quitting my job to do music full-time has been my biggest blessing. Living in my true purpose is amazing. |THIS.
[By Mr. Joe Walker and Alex aka Grand Kai]
[Editor’s Note: You’re welcome, London! And thank YOU too!]
