ELENA C. LOCKLEIS
Q: What inspired you to write “I Will Cheer With You” and focus on celebrating the smaller victories in life?
A. Depression was really heightened and I kept wanting to read a text from a friend like ‘I will cheer with you.’
Q: How important was it for you to highlight the moments that often go unnoticed, like getting through a tough day or speaking brave words?
A. Very important. It’s so easy to feel discouraged when the bigger picture feels so far away. It’s difficult to say we’re proud of ourselves when we’re in the within.
Q: When you mention “leveling up” in life, what does that phrase mean personally to you?
A. To me, that phrase means just the consistent choice to keep existing.
Q: The lyrics acknowledge setbacks with the “two steps forward, one step back” line. How do you personally deal with those ups and downs?
A. I’m still working on how to best deal with those ups and downs. Processing in therapy has helped a lot.
Q: Was it important for you to make this song feel inclusive and supportive for people going through different struggles?
A. That’s the way the song formed and I like to go by honoring the song. Being that it’s the way it formed, the importance was at the forefront.
Q: How do you hope listeners will feel when they hear “I will cheer with you” repeated throughout the song?
A. I hope listeners feel loved, supported and at least a smidge less alone.
Q: Can you talk about the choice to include practical advice like taking a deep breath when overwhelmed? Was that something you’ve found helpful in your own life?
A. It was another instance of ‘honoring the song.’ Through therapy, I’ve really been trying to implement ways to calm the overwhelm. There have been some pretty overwhelming moments where it’s been something that has helped me.
Q: What role does community and support play in your music, especially in songs like this one?
A. Overall, just trying to bridge the gap to not alone.
Q: The bridge encourages people to shout out that they’ve survived all their bad days so far. Why did you want to include that moment of empowerment?
A. It’s a statement that I’ve said out loud to myself lots of times.
Q: How do you think acknowledging small victories can change the way people view their personal growth?
A. Because it lessens disappointment and cushions what one might perceive as failure.
Q: Have you ever felt like your own smaller victories were overlooked? How did that influence this song?
A. Personally, I’ve overlooked many of my own and have a difficult time acknowledging their existence from another’s perspective. Influence-wise, part of the backbone of the song.
Q: How does “I Will Cheer With You” fit into your overall message as an artist?
A. As an artist, I strive to be a safe space. I think this song is a great representation of that.
Q: What role do you think music plays in helping people feel seen and supported during difficult times?
A. I think music can feel like a much needed hug.
Q: Are there other themes you want to explore in future songs that build on the message of “I Will Cheer With You”?
A. In addition to my takes on love and heartbreak, I strive to bring more conversations through songwriting about mental health; specifically Depression, Anxiety & OCD to the forefront.
