Elisakh Hagia—aka “ELS”—does not let age hold her back from chasing her dreams. The 12-year-old Indonesian-American singer, dancer, and actress has already forged a name for herself in the entertainment industry, with multiple hit songs, performances, and campaigns under her belt. Born in Jakarta, Hagia started singing at the tender age of four, enrolling herself in vocal lessons before releasing songs of her own. She suddenly rose to worldwide stardom after releasing the song “Slide” in collaboration with “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)” rapper Silentó. Hagia also wrote the lyrics for “What Els,” a popular tune sung by her and “Juju On That Beat” singer Zay Hilfigerrr that has been streamed over 31 million times on SoundCloud. Two years ago, the Art4Peace Most Inspirational Actress winner also decided to ignite a movement for young Indonesian children, giving dancers under the age of 17 the opportunity to dance in the music video for her second single and perform at DBL Indonesia, the biggest basketball league in the country. With new projects on the horizon, Hagia lets readers peek at her past and future accomplishments. 

What was it like collaborating with Silentó on “Slide?”

I love to cover songs, and I had danced to his song before. I also love to email my idols saying how much they inspire me—crazy, right? But after a year, I connected with him through his uncle and my music producer. We showed him a song that I wrote, and he said he would love to do a collaboration.


How did the release of “Slide” skyrocket your career?

It was big news in Indonesia, maybe because I was the first kid from there to do a collaboration with an American artist. From that moment on, I started to perform a lot in both Indonesia and America. Still, I still have bigger goals and a long journey ahead.

How would you describe the style of your music? Does your Indonesian background affect it at all?

My music is what I call “hip-pop.” It‘s pop music but always has a touch of hip-hop. I love Indonesian music, but my spirit is still dominated by hip-hop.


Who are some of your music inspirations?

Bruno Mars, Jessie J, and Alec Benjamin, Dua Lipa. I love them as songwriters and performers.


What/who inspired the lyrics of “What Els?” What was the main message that you were trying to get across?

“What Els” is my second single, and it’s very different from “Slide.” “What Els” is more about young people. I’m showing that kids are the future--children are important. That song inspired me to start a campaign that inspires young people to be a better generation.

Any dream collaborations in mind?

This may be a high reach, but I dream of singing with Alec Benjamin. You may not believe it, but I remember all of his songs and even put my own rap part in some of them. He’s awesome.


What are your future plans?

I would love to release new music as I enter my teenage years. I’m also making new videos that film behind the scenes of my journey in America. I want to show people more about me.


What advice do you have for kids who want to pursue a career in the music industry like you are?

People may judge your talent and force you to be what they like, but remember to always stay true to your heart and art.

This or That: 

Camila Cabello or Cardi B? Cardi B.

Pop music or rap music? Pop.

Movies or TV shows? Movies.

Pizza or ice cream? Pizza.

Los Angeles or New York? New York.

Follow Elisakh on Social Media:

Instagram: @elisakhagia

TikTok: @els.hagia

Triller: @els.hagia