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Elle Varner
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Elle Varner
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Key Information

Gabrielle Serene Varner (born February 12, 1989)[2][3] is an American singer-songwriter. Born into a musical family in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Los Angeles, Varner studied at New York University's Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music. In October 2009, she signed with RCA Records along with a co-publishing agreement with Sony Music.[4]

Varner released her debut album, Perfectly Imperfect, in August 2012, preceded by the release of the single "Only Wanna Give It to You". The album debuted at number four on the US Billboard Hot 200.

Early life

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Varner is of Cape Verdean, African American, and Swedish descent, Elle herself has stated "my father is half Swedish and half black, and my mother is 100% Cape Verdean."[5][6] The daughter of Mikelyn Roderick and Jimmy Varner, songwriters and publishers.[7] Roderick was a backup vocalist for Barry White; and has written and recorded with Tevin Campbell and Rahsaan Patterson. Roderick released an album on the Dome label in 2007.[8] Jimmy Varner is a songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist who has collaborated with Gerald Alston, Kool & the Gang, and Will Downing.[8] Her parents, together with Stan Sheppard, formed the group By All Means which was a minor success.

Varner spent most of her childhood sleeping on studio couches, running around green rooms, and watching her parents struggle to make a name in the industry. At age six she began to play musical instruments, beginning with the flute, and later she moved on to piano and guitar.[7] She attended several music programs including actress Wendy Raquel Robinson's Amazing Grace Conservatory starting at age 11 and Alexander Hamilton High School's Academy of Music's Vocal Jazz Group.[7] Varner then attended New York University’s Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music.[7]

Career

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2008-12: Perfectly Imperfect

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At age 16, Varner picked up a guitar for the first time. She dropped the guitar and became a part of Alexander Hamilton High School's Academy of Music's Vocal Jazz Group. Varner was selected for the Grammy in the Schools Mentoring Program. Through this, she was taken weekly to the Fox Studio, where she met with mentor Kelly Burgos and president of Fox Music, Robert Kraft. She attended New York University and was admitted into the second class of the Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music. She graduated in 2008.[7]

In October 2009 she signed with MBK/J-RCA Records with a co-publishing agreement with Sony Music.[9] Varner became one of the first artists featured in BET's Music Matters campaign for 2010.

Varner performing in November 2011 in Brooklyn, New York for Sofar Sounds

Varner's debut single "Only Wanna Give It to You" was released on August 6, 2011. The song, which serves as the lead single from her debut studio album Perfectly Imperfect (2012), features American rapper J. Cole. The song peaked at #20 on the US Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. In October 2011, she was listed as one of TheBoomBox's '15 Artists to Watch'[10] and was one of the artists featured in BET's Music Matters campaign.[11] On October 7, 2011, RCA Music Group announced it was disbanding J Records along with Arista Records and Jive Records. With the shutdown, Varner (and all artists previously signed to these three labels) would release her future material on RCA Records.[12][13] In preparation for her debut studio album, Varner released a mixtape on January 23, 2012, titled Conversational Lush.[14] The second single from Varner's debut album "Refill" was released to iTunes January 31, 2012, and debuted at #78 on the US Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. On February 11, 2012, Varner and The Roots gave a performance dedicated to Whitney Houston, for the Roots Pre-Grammy Jam Session at the House of Blues in Los Angeles.[15]

Varner's debut album, Perfectly Imperfect, was released on August 7, 2012 debuting at number four on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 33,000 copies in the United States.[16] It also debuted at number two on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.[17] As of October 20, 2012, Perfectly Imperfect has charted for ten weeks on the Billboard 200. In September 2012, Varner was credited for co-writing the song "Use Me" for the R&B singer Miguel, taken from his second album Kaleidoscope Dream.[18]

2013-2016: Four Letter Word

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For her second studio album, Varner worked with producers including Pop & Oak, Eric Hudson, DJ Dahi, Da Internz, and Hit-Boy.[19] Varner stated that she has made her own genre while recording the album which she called "trap jazz."[20] Varner described her second album as “definitely sexier,” than her previous. She released the promotional single "Rover" featuring American rapper Wale.[21] After pushbacks,[clarification needed] Four Letter Word was shelved and Varner was dropped from RCA Records.

2019-Present: Ellevation

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In 2019 Varner released her debut EP Ellevation.

Artistry

[edit]

"I'm definitely addressing feelings of the human experience, such as insecurity, jealousy, sexuality, sensuality, deep love, going out drinking there's just a kind of moment of a full spectrum."

— Varner, speaking on her musical topics.[22]

Varner's voice has been compared to that of British singer Adele containing "soul "with a touch of raspy seduction."[23] She is a mezzo-soprano[24] Varner's debut mixtape contained an "eclectic mix of pop, hip hop, and soul", that contained lyrical content regarding "relationship issues, girl power and fun" as well as being compared to Rihanna and Erykah Badu.[25]

Varner cites rapper Kanye West and soul singer Adele as two major influences noting that she wanted to combine both soul and hip-hop together saying "I only really wanted to combine the best of Hip-Hop and the best of that singer/songwriter soul. So I just picked those two as an example".[22] Elle also draws inspiration from her hometown of Los Angeles commenting on how Los Angeles influences her she said “For me, there’s a nostalgia about L.A., especially West Coast rap, like N.W.A will always be a part of me growing up.”[26] Varner also cites Mariah Carey, Brandy and Monica as influences.[27]

Varner counts Ella Fitzgerald as an influence on her musical style. Varner said "I just would always listen to her voice and say “Oh my God, how does she do it?” You know it's like she has this enchanting, beautiful voice and I'm very enthused by her."[28]

Discography

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Main article: Elle Varner discography
Studio albums
Mixtapes
  • Conversational Lush (2012)

Tours

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Headlining

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  • The Ellevation Tour (2020)[29]

Supporting

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Awards and nominations

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Grammy Awards

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Year Nominee / work Award Result
2013 "Refill" Best R&B Song Nominated

BET Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result
2013 Elle Varner Best R&B Female Artist[32] Nominated

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Elle Varner

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Elle Varner is an American and renowned for blending R&B, soul, and pop elements in her music, with a career marked by critical acclaim, Grammy recognition, and independent artistry. Born into a musical family—her mother a vocalist and songwriter who backed , and her father a songwriter, producer, and —Varner began playing , , and guitar at age six. She studied at New York University's Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, where she honed her skills as a and songwriter. Signing with and in 2009, she debuted in 2011 with the single "Only Wanna Give It to You" featuring , which peaked at No. 20 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Her debut album, Perfectly Imperfect, followed in 2012, featuring the hit "Refill" (with remixes featuring and Wale) and earning a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song in 2013. After parting ways with major labels, Varner founded her own imprint, 212 Enterprises (later Two Twelve Enterprises), securing a distribution deal with Entertainment One, which allowed her greater creative control. She received a Grammy Award in 2017 for her contributions to Chance the Rapper's . Her second project, the 2019 mixtape , included singles like "Loving U Blind," "Pour Me" with Wale, and "Kinda Love," and was supported by a sold-out nationwide tour. In recent years, Varner has continued releasing music independently, including the 2024 singles "Fallin' Up" and "Black," as well as "Wanderer Revised (Tribute to Jimmy Varner and Rodney James)" in 2025, while maintaining an active touring schedule with intimate live performances. Beyond music, she has ventured into , appearing in films such as Marry Me (2022).

Early life

Family background

Gabrielle Serene Varner, known professionally as Elle Varner, was born on February 12, 1989, in , New York, to parents Jimmy Varner and Mikelyn Roderick. Jimmy Varner is a musician, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer who has contributed to projects including the R&B group By All Means and recordings with artists like Bill Withers. Mikelyn Roderick, also known as Mikki Varner, is a singer, songwriter, and backup vocalist who performed with notable figures such as , , and , and has released her own music while collaborating on songwriting endeavors. Both parents were deeply embedded in industry as publishers and creators, fostering an environment rich with creative influences from an early age. Following her birth in New York, Varner and her family relocated to , , where she was primarily raised in a household immersed in professional music production. The Varner home served as a hub for live music sessions, with her parents often hosting collaborations and rehearsals that exposed her to the inner workings of the industry. Jimmy Varner's production work and Mikelyn Roderick's vocal performances brought renowned artists into their orbit, allowing young Varner to observe studio sessions and tour preparations firsthand. This constant proximity to music professionals shaped her initial understanding of songcraft and performance. As an in this dynamic setting, Varner benefited from her parents' extensive network, which included encounters with legends like , , and Bill Withers during family visits to recording studios and tours. The emphasis on musical collaboration within the family provided her with unparalleled early immersion, setting the foundation for her own artistic development without formal training at that stage.

Musical influences and early training

Varner was exposed to from an early age due to her bi-coastal family's musical legacy, with parents who were songwriters and producers providing her access to instruments and recordings at home. At six years old, she began learning the , followed by and guitar, initially guided by her parents' teachings and the availability of their instruments. This home environment fostered her foundational skills, allowing her to experiment with and through family collaborations and casual play. As a child, Varner participated in local performances and attended music programs that shaped her early development, including the Amazing Grace Conservatory starting at age 11, where she honed her vocal and instrumental abilities alongside acting training. Her key musical influences stemmed from her family's collection of records and classic R&B artists, such as , , and , whose vocal styles and songcraft inspired her appreciation for soulful expression and intricate harmonies. She also drew from diverse sources like , , and early , often selecting albums intuitively at record stores during childhood outings. In her teens, Varner began her first songwriting attempts, composing and recording original material by age 13, including her debut song "Thankful," which she performed on guitar—albeit with just one string—and won a local talent show. These experiences built her confidence in blending personal storytelling with music. The family's frequent relocations between New York and Los Angeles further influenced her creative growth, immersing her in varied urban music scenes that broadened her exposure to hip-hop, rap, and contemporary R&B elements.

Career

2008–2012: Breakthrough with Perfectly Imperfect

In 2008, Varner graduated from New York University's Department of Recorded Music, a highly selective program that accepts only 24 students annually and emphasizes recording, production, and the music industry. During her studies, she honed her skills under top professors and completed projects focused on songwriting and production, earning distinctions such as "most likely to get signed" and "most likely to win a Grammy." Her education provided a strong foundation, blending classical training with contemporary music business insights. Following graduation, Varner signed with /J Records (an RCA imprint under ) in October 2009, securing a recording deal along with a co-publishing agreement with . The signing came after informal industry connections, including a chance encounter at a New York club where she performed guitar, leading to meetings with MBK executives who were impressed by her demos. This deal marked her professional entry into major-label R&B, positioning her for broader exposure. Varner's debut single, "Only Wanna Give It to You" featuring , was released in August 2011 and peaked at No. 20 on the chart. The track generated early media attention, earning her a spot on The BoomBox's list of "15 Artists to Watch" in October 2011 and features in BET's emerging artist series. Her debut , Conversational Lush, was released in January 2012, further building anticipation with soulful, guitar-driven tracks. The full-length debut album, Perfectly Imperfect, arrived on August 7, 2012, via MBK/, debuting at No. 4 on the and No. 2 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart with 33,000 first-week units sold. Varner co-wrote and co-produced much of the project, collaborating with producers such as Andrew and Warren (known collectively as Pop & Oak), who handled the majority of the beats, blending neo-soul, pop, and hip-hop elements. Additional contributors included on tracks like "Oh What a Night." Critics praised the album for its confident songwriting, vocal versatility, and emotional depth, with Rolling Stone calling it a "smart musical showcase" that highlighted Varner's charisma. The Washington Post commended its fusion of R&B production with country fiddles and impressive runs, while The Oklahoman noted her jazz-infused, seductive style as a refreshing contrast to mainstream trends. The success culminated in a 2013 Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song for "Refill," underscoring her breakthrough as a promising new voice in R&B.

2013–2015: Four Letter Word and rising fame

Following the success of her debut album Perfectly Imperfect, which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, Elle Varner continued building momentum in 2013 with the Grammy-nominated single "Refill." The track, co-written by Varner along with Darhyl Camper and Andrew Wansel, earned a nomination for Best R&B Song at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, highlighting her songwriting prowess and marking her as a rising force in contemporary R&B. Although it did not win—losing to Miguel's "Adorn"—the recognition solidified Varner's presence in the industry, with "Refill" peaking at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. In 2014, Varner shifted focus to her anticipated sophomore project, , beginning with the release of the "Don't Wanna Dance" featuring A$AP Ferg on July 15. The upbeat track, produced by Ross Vannelli, showcased Varner's evolving sound blending R&B with hip-hop elements and served as a promotional teaser for the album. To build anticipation, she released the 4 Letter Word EP on May 6, 2014, via , featuring raw, introspective tracks such as "Cold Case," "See Me Tonight," "Little Do You Know," and "Fuck It All." These songs explored themes of emotional vulnerability and relationships, reflecting Varner's personal growth during the recording process. Varner's rising fame during this period was amplified by high-profile promotional efforts, including a performance of "Refill" on in February 2013, where she captivated audiences with her live vocals and charismatic stage presence. She also made appearances at events, presenting nominations at the 2013 alongside A$AP Rocky and earning a nomination for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist—though ultimately won. In interviews, Varner shared insights into her creative process for , describing it as a "breakup album" born from channeling pain and self-reflection after a personal relationship ended, emphasizing a shift toward more authentic, unfiltered expression in her songwriting. To support the project, she toured select dates in 2015, including a standout set at the Essence Festival in New Orleans, where she previewed material and connected with fans through energetic performances.

2016–2018: Label challenges and creative hiatus

Following the release of her EP in 2014, Varner encountered substantial obstacles with , including repeated delays on her planned sophomore album of the same name, which was ultimately shelved due to internal label decisions and restructuring. This period marked a significant slowdown in her solo output, as the lack of promotion and creative support from the label frustrated fans and stalled her momentum from earlier successes like the Grammy-nominated "Refill." In interviews, Varner described the emotional toll of these setbacks, noting how tying her self-worth to commercial success led to personal struggles amid industry pressures, prompting a necessary creative hiatus to regain balance. During 2016 and , Varner maintained a low profile with minimal independent releases, such as her holiday single "This " in 2016 and a feature on Salaam Remi's "" that year, while shifting focus to songwriting collaborations. Notably, she co-wrote tracks for Chance the Rapper's mixtape , earning her first Grammy Award in 2017 for Best Rap Album for her co-writing contributions to the track "Blessings (Based on a True Story)," which provided a bright spot amid the challenges and highlighted her versatility . She made select appearances, including performances at events like the 2017 Essence Festival, but avoided major commitments to prioritize recovery and exploration of non-music interests. By 2018, the culmination of these label disputes led to Varner's departure from RCA, allowing her to transition toward independence and reclaim creative control over her masters. In reflecting on the hiatus, she emphasized personal growth through and , stating in a 2019 that the experience taught her resilience: "I’ve been where you are, so low / Wonder why I’m here, foreal though," lyrics from her later track "Be Encouraged" that captured her journey. This phase, though challenging, fostered a deeper artistic introspection, setting the stage for her subsequent independent endeavors.

2019–present: Ellevation, independent releases, and career revival

In 2019, Elle Varner released her sophomore project Ellevation on July 12 via eOne Music, marking her return after a period of label transitions and creative challenges. The nine-track EP, which she executive-produced alongside her father Jimmy Varner, explores themes of personal growth, upliftment, and perseverance, with Varner expressing hope that it would inspire listeners by reflecting her own journey through imperfections and setbacks. Key singles from the project included "Kinda Love," released in April 2019, which showcased her blend of soulful R&B and introspective lyrics on relational complexities. Following Ellevation, Varner embraced full independence, launching her own imprint Two Twelve Enterprises and continuing to drop singles that highlight her evolving artistry and resilience. In 2024, she released "Black" on May 29 as her first independent single, an unapologetic anthem celebrating identity timed for Black Music Month, produced with a focus on and . Later that year, on November 26, "Fallin Up" arrived, a reflective track produced by Jordan Ware, Los Hendrix, and L3, emphasizing upward momentum amid life's uncertainties. In September 2025, Varner issued "Wanderer Revised," a poignant single dedicated to her late father Jimmy Varner and collaborator Rodney James, underscoring themes of loss and legacy in her ongoing musical narrative. Beyond music, Varner expanded into fashion in 2023 with a collaborative clothing collection under the S24 Queenship Collective, partnering with MLB legend Ken Griffey Jr. to create apparel and accessories promoting women's rights, featuring items like t-shirts, hoodies, and joggers in black, white, and lavender hues priced from $40 to $125. In interviews during 2024 and 2025, she openly discussed rebuilding her career post-label difficulties, including a fallout with RCA that stalled releases for years, framing her independent era as a liberating phase of self-determination and artistic control. Varner reflected on the ebbs and flows of her professional path, noting how vulnerability and persistence allowed her to reclaim her voice after periods of silence. Varner's live performances during this period signaled a strong career resurgence, with major tours anchoring her return. She headlined The Lucky Tour in 2023, kicking off March 10 in at City Winery and visiting cities like Nashville, , and New York to promote her independent pivot. In 2025, the Love Me Again Tour brought her to intimate venues across major U.S. cities, including stops on August 6 in , August 7 in , August 8 in Nashville, August 9-10 in , August 14 in , and August 16 in , where she shared stories of growth and performed fan favorites. She also maintained visibility at festivals, appearing at Essence Fest in multiple years, including a 2019 Superlounge set where she teased Ellevation and connected with audiences on themes of inspiration. Looking ahead, Varner's official site announced participation in Cruise 2026, sailing from February 7-12 with stops in , , and the , alongside other events like Island Vybe in from January 22-26, 2026. These commitments, coupled with her 2025 interviews emphasizing sustained evolution, position her independent phase as a foundation for continued creative output and fan engagement.

Artistry

Musical style and influences

Elle Varner's music primarily blends with elements of soul, pop, and hip-hop, creating a fusion that draws from diverse traditions including and . Her influences span a broad spectrum, from classic vocalists like and to modern artists such as , reflecting her early exposure to musical family traditions and formal training. As a , Varner possesses a versatile characterized by a signature raspy tone that shifts from soft to muscular delivery, often enhanced by ad-libs and emotive runs that convey raw vulnerability. This technique allows her to infuse performances with emotional depth, bridging classic R&B phrasing with contemporary flair. Varner's artistry has evolved from the polished, genre-blending R&B of her 2012 debut Perfectly Imperfect, which incorporated hip-hop rhythms and soulful grooves, to the more introspective and acoustic-leaning sound of her 2019 mixtape Ellevation and subsequent independent releases like the 2025 tribute Wanderer Revised. In these later works, she emphasizes guitar, , and bass-driven arrangements over slick production, allowing for greater personal expression in a soul-jazz hybrid. Her themes consistently explore love, self-empowerment, and vulnerability, addressing , relationships, and everyday resilience through relatable, soulful . Instrumentation often features live and subtle elements, such as fiddles, to evoke a retro-modern warmth. Critics have praised Varner's "retro-modern" sound for its cohesive genre fusion and heartfelt authenticity, with outlets highlighting how her sultry rasp and intricate vocal layering revitalize R&B tropes while maintaining timeless appeal. Her debut earned acclaim as "R&B gold" for its adaptive beats and jazz-infused vocals, while later projects like Ellevation were noted for their uplifting, therapeutic quality amid personal evolution.

Songwriting and production

Elle Varner has co-written the majority of tracks across her major releases, including her debut album Perfectly Imperfect (2012) and subsequent EPs like 4 Letter Word (2014) and Ellevation (2019), drawing from her role as a primary songwriter to infuse personal narratives into her music. Her songwriting process emphasizes authenticity, often stemming from stream-of-consciousness reflections on personal experiences such as breakups and emotional growth, as seen in the raw vulnerability of 4 Letter Word, which she described as a post-breakup exploration blending humor, depression, and self-assertion. This intuitive approach, likened to a child's unselfconscious play, prioritizes as the foundation before layering melodies influenced by her diverse musical upbringing. In production, Varner has progressively taken a hands-on role, leveraging her multi-instrumentalist abilities on , guitar, and bass to shape her sound during organic, home-studio sessions that favor acoustic authenticity over polished perfection. Early collaborations, such as with on Four Letter Word, highlighted her ability to integrate live instrumentation like violins with modern beats, while her NYU Clive Davis Institute education in recording and production equipped her with technical skills to retain imperfect takes for emotional depth. Her songwriting earned a Grammy for Best R&B for "Refill" in 2013, recognizing its clever blend of personal plea and rhythmic innovation. Post-2019, Varner shifted to independent production after departing , founding her label 212 Enterprises to gain full creative freedom and ownership of her masters, as exemplified in the self-reflective Ellevation EP and later "Quarantine Sessions" tracks like "Crazywild," where she handled writing, production, and recording amid industry challenges. This autonomy allowed for uplifting, genre-blending output that prioritized her vision over label constraints.

Discography

Studio albums

Varner's debut studio album, Perfectly Imperfect, was released on August 7, 2012, by RCA Records and MBK Entertainment. The project features 11 tracks, blending contemporary R&B with jazz and pop elements, and explores themes of imperfection in love, self-esteem, and emotional vulnerability through heartfelt lyrics and colorful wordplay. It debuted at number 4 on the US Billboard 200 chart and number 2 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, selling 33,000 copies in its first week. The album received positive critical reception for its confident songwriting and sultry vocal delivery, with reviewers praising its mix of slick production and impressive runs. Since Perfectly Imperfect, Varner has not released additional studio albums, instead focusing on EPs, mixtapes, and standalone singles to maintain creative flexibility. Critical aggregates for her catalog highlight strong reception for Perfectly Imperfect (average score around 85/100 from select reviews), emphasizing her consistent songwriting impact.

Singles and EPs

Varner's debut single, "Only Wanna Give It to You" featuring , was released on August 16, 2011, marking her introduction to the R&B scene with its blend of soulful vocals and hip-hop elements. The track peaked at No. 20 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, contributing to her early buzz ahead of her debut album. Following this, "Refill" served as the second single from her debut project, released on January 31, 2012, and showcasing her introspective songwriting on themes of emotional renewal. It achieved greater commercial success, reaching No. 10 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song. In 2012, Varner released her promotional mixtape Conversational Lush on January 23, featuring raw, experimental tracks that previewed her debut album's sound while exploring personal vulnerability and relationships. This free project helped build anticipation without major label backing at the time. As part of her sophomore era preparations, Varner issued the promotional EP on May 6, 2014, a four-track collection delving into love's complexities and serving as a teaser for her unreleased album of the same name. The EP highlighted her evolving production style amid label transitions. Varner's EP Ellevation arrived on July 12, 2019, as an independent release via eOne . Comprising 9 tracks, it delves into self-reflection and personal growth following a creative hiatus, incorporating lush influences and raw, earthy arrangements with guest appearances from Wale and . Critics commended its stripped-down authenticity and loyalty to Varner's artistic voice, describing it as a refreshing evolution from major-label polish. The project did not achieve significant commercial chart placement but marked her return to full-length projects amid label transitions. Critical aggregates highlight solid praise for Ellevation (around 70/100). Transitioning to independent releases during her career revival, Varner dropped "Kinda Love" on April 12, 2019, a laid-back track reflecting on ambiguous romance and self-discovery, aligning with her post-label creative freedom. This single preceded her 2019 EP Ellevation and underscored themes of empowerment through honest expression. In 2024, Varner released "Black" on May 29, an unapologetic track celebrating Black identity and shared during Black Music Month. Later that year, "Fallin' Up" arrived on November 26 as an uplifting about embracing vulnerability in love, produced independently under her Two Twelve Enterprises imprint and emphasizing resilience and joy in her recent output. On September 25, 2025, she released "Wanderer Revised," a collaboration with Soul In The Horn honoring her late father Jimmy Varner and Rodney James, infusing soulful introspection with empowering tributes to legacy and growth. These later singles reflect Varner's shift toward autonomous artistry, prioritizing themes of empowerment and personal evolution in her independent phase.

Live performances

Headlining tours

Varner's first major headlining effort came in support of her debut album Perfectly Imperfect, released in August 2012. She performed a series of promotional shows across the , including a sold-out album release concert at New York City's Highline Ballroom on August 9, 2012, where she showcased tracks like "Refill" and covers of Brandy and songs to an enthusiastic crowd. These performances, spanning late 2012 into 2013, emphasized her debut material and helped build her rising fame, with setlists typically featuring "Only Wanna Give It to You," "Refill," and "So Fly," highlighting themes of and imperfection drawn from the album's concept. In support of her 2019 mixtape Ellevation, Varner embarked on the Ellevation Tour in January 2020, featuring sold-out shows across the United States and highlighting tracks like "Pour Me" and "Loving U Blind." After a period of label challenges and creative hiatus, Varner launched The Lucky Tour in 2023 as a post-revival milestone, running from March 10 to March 23 across seven cities in the US. Kicking off with two shows at City Winery in Chicago on March 10, the tour included stops in Nashville, Atlanta (March 15 at City Winery), and New York City, focusing on intimate venues to foster close connections with fans. Setlists blended classics like "Refill" with previews of four new unreleased songs, reflecting her return to music amid personal renewal; fan reception was positive, with attendees praising the emotional depth and her vocal prowess during the Atlanta performance. Attendance at these smaller halls averaged around 300 per show, underscoring a theme of gratitude and luck in her career trajectory. In 2025, Varner mounted the Love Me Again Tour from summer through fall, emphasizing intimate settings at City Winery locations to promote new singles such as "Fallin' Up." The schedule featured dates in (August 6), (August 7), Nashville (August 8), (August 9–10), (August 14), (August 16), (August 17), and (August 22), with setlists mixing timeless hits like "Refill" and "Pour Me" alongside fresh originals exploring resilience and self-reconnection. As an independent artist under 212 Enterprises, the tour embodied themes of personal growth and returning to her roots with passion and truth, receiving warm fan acclaim for its soulful, vulnerable energy in close-knit environments. Venues' capacities of 300–500 ensured high engagement, marking a significant step in her career revival.

Supporting and festival appearances

Varner began gaining prominence through festival performances early in her career. In 2012, she debuted at (SXSW), taking the stage at the S.O.B.'s showcase alongside emerging hip-hop and R&B acts such as Machine Gun Kelly and Miguel. That same year, she made her first appearance at the Essence Festival, where she was highlighted as a promising newcomer often compared to for her soulful style. She continued to build her profile with return engagements at the Essence Festival. In 2019, Varner performed in the Superlounge during the event's 25th anniversary celebration, delivering sets that showcased her evolving sound and drawing crowds with tracks from her catalog. These festival slots provided key platforms for exposure, allowing her to connect with fans and industry figures in celebratory environments focused on Black culture and music. In terms of supporting roles, Varner joined Maxwell for a surprise duet and soulful cypher with and Stacy Barthe during a 2016 performance event in , performing songs like "Ascension" and "Permission," following her solo performance of "Refill." Such collaborative moments underscored her versatility in live settings beyond headlining.

Awards and honors

Grammy Awards

Elle Varner received a Grammy nomination in for Best R&B Song for her single "Refill," from her debut album Perfectly Imperfect. The song, co-written by Varner along with Darhyl "DJ" Camper and Andrew "Pop" Wansel, highlighted her songwriting prowess but did not secure a win, with the award going to "Adorn" by Miguel. In 2017, Varner earned her first Grammy win as a background vocalist on Chance the Rapper's mixtape , which triumphed in the Best Rap Album category. Her contribution to track 4, "Summer Friends," marked a notable collaboration during a transitional phase in her career, though it was not a solo nomination. Despite early acclaim, Varner has not received additional Grammy nominations for her solo work since 2013. This absence aligns with a career hiatus following label disputes with , which shelved her sophomore album Four Letter Word in 2014, leading to reduced output and limited industry visibility during that period. The gap underscores broader challenges in recognition for R&B artists navigating major label constraints and personal reinvention.

BET Awards and other recognitions

Elle Varner received a for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist at the , recognizing her breakthrough debut album Perfectly Imperfect and singles like "Refill," placing her alongside established artists such as , , , and . Although she did not win, the highlighted her rising prominence in during a pivotal year in her career. In 2013, Varner won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding New Artist, further affirming her emergence in R&B. She was also nominated the following year for Outstanding Female Artist at the 2014 . In the same period, Varner earned significant acclaim from the Awards, winning Best New Artist in 2012 for her fresh songwriting and vocal style that blended neo-soul with pop sensibilities. This victory, presented at the ceremony in , underscored her emergence as a vital voice in R&B, affirming her appeal within the genre's community dedicated to celebrating Black musical heritage. Beyond these, Varner has been noted in various honors celebrating in music, including performances at events like the 2024 Black Music Honors, where she contributed to tributes honoring R&B legends. By 2025, her return to the spotlight with the "Love Me Again" tour and new releases has positioned her in discussions of R&B comebacks, emphasizing resilience and renewed creative output after a hiatus. These recognitions collectively validate Varner's enduring impact in the R&B landscape, where awards from , , and serve as cultural benchmarks for artistic innovation and community representation.

References

  1. https://nul.org/event/equal-opportunity-dinner-2020/bio/elle-varner
  2. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/elle-varner/455276061
  3. https://www.phillytrib.com/entertainment/music/r-b-artist-elle-varner-is-her-own-boss/article_d5152eb7-1d8d-545f-ae23-419ae7b26d9c.html
  4. https://www.aaemusic.com/artist/elle-varner
  5. https://ratedrnb.com/2024/11/elle-varner-new-song-fallin-up/
  6. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5080571/
  7. https://pro.harman.com/insights/harman-pro/harman-ambassador-spotlight-singer-songwriter-producer-and-musician-elle-varner/
  8. https://www.bmi.com/news/entry/10_questions_elle_varner
  9. https://youknowigotsoul.com/youknowigotsoul-interview-with-elle-varner
  10. https://wbssmedia.com/artists/detail/3793
  11. https://urbanbridgez.com/2019/07/12/elle-varner-talks-ellevation-with-ub-new-album-available-now/
  12. https://tisch.nyu.edu/clive-davis-institute/people0/alumni
  13. https://kingsofar.com/2010/01/25/elle-varner-signs-to-sony-music-publishing/
  14. https://thisisrnb.com/2012/01/new-music-elle-varner-%25E2%2580%2593-%25E2%2580%2598conversational-lush%25E2%2580%2599-mixtape/
  15. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/chart-juice-elle-varner-debuts-at-no-2-on-rbhip-hop-albums-480386/
  16. https://www.oklahoman.com/story/entertainment/music/2012/08/17/music-review-elle-varner-perfectly-imperfect-rca/61052026007/
  17. https://www.discogs.com/release/3787358-Elle-Varner-Perfectly-Imperfect
  18. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/perfectly-imperfect-188766/
  19. https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/music-review-perfectly-imperfect-by-elle-varner/2012/08/06/7da260e4-dfc8-11e1-a421-8bf0f0e5aa11_story.html
  20. https://grammy.com/artists/elle-varner/15512
  21. https://www.grammy.com/artists/elle-varner/15512
  22. https://genius.com/albums/Elle-varner/Four-letter-word
  23. https://youhearthat.com/2013/02/28/elle-varner/
  24. https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-ms-bet-awards-2013-complete-list-of-winners-20130630-story.html
  25. https://www.glamour.com/story/elle-varner-4-letter-word
  26. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ficcemJA4-k
  27. https://www.essence.com/festival/2017-essence-festival/elle-varner-grammy-new-music/
  28. https://youknowigotsoul.com/elle-varner-discusses-new-ellevation-ep-leaving-major-label-never-giving-up-exclusive
  29. https://www.essence.com/festival/2017-essence-festival/elle-varner-music/
  30. https://www.grammy.com/news/elle-varner-teases-sophomore-lp-ellevation-says-why-she-comes-essence-every-year
  31. https://www.vibe.com/music/music-news/elle-varner-hopes-ellevation-ep-heals-and-uplifts-655449/
  32. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2L9CIkUm1Ak
  33. https://music.apple.com/ca/album/black-single/1749844337
  34. https://open.spotify.com/track/6f8z9kUb8pC4KEwiE22csz
  35. https://www.vibe.com/lifestyle/fashion/elle-varner-mlb-womens-rights-s24-queenship-collective-1234742409/
  36. https://ratedrnb.com/2019/05/interview-elle-varner-ellevation/
  37. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDFIZqZuvEi/
  38. https://ratedrnb.com/2022/12/elle-varner-announces-the-lucky-tour-2023-dates/
  39. https://www.instagram.com/p/DJqBNDdO8ds/
  40. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnR-ifMxD8E
  41. https://ellevarner.com/
  42. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMfHkznpYjk
  43. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/elle-varner-reps-talk-perfectly-imperfect-album-480558/
  44. https://www.teenvogue.com/story/elle-varner-interview
  45. https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2012/08/06/music-review-elle-varners-debut-disc-is-rb-gold/
  46. https://grownfolksmusic.com/gfm-spotlight-interview-elle-varner-talks-ellevation-evolution-as-an-artist/
  47. https://ratedrnb.com/2019/07/elle-varners-new-ep-ellevation-was-worth-the-wait/
  48. https://www.nydailynews.com/2012/12/27/elle-varner-proudly-overshares-the-details-of-her-life-on-perfectly-imperfect/
  49. https://dopecausewesaid.com/dope-features/review-ellevation-album-by-elle-varner
  50. https://hypebae.com/2019/8/elle-varner-music-interview-ellevation-ep
  51. https://pro.harman.com/insights/harman-pro/harman-ambassador-spotlight-singer-songwriter-producer-and-musician-elle-varner
  52. https://ratedrnb.com/2015/01/interview-elle-varner-talks-4-letter-word-album-goals-2015/
  53. https://www.blackenterprise.com/singer-elle-varner-on-creating-in-quarantine-starting-a-label-and-covids-impact-on-the-music-industry/
  54. https://www.allmusic.com/album/perfectly-imperfect-mw0002399768
  55. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/now-43-scores-franchises-16th-no-1-on-billboard-200-1084156/
  56. https://www.albumoftheyear.org/album/4659-elle-varner-perfectly-imperfect.php
  57. https://genius.com/Elle-varner-only-wanna-give-it-to-you-lyrics/q/release-date
  58. https://www.allmusic.com/album/refill-mw0002342023
  59. https://genius.com/albums/Elle-varner/Conversational-lush
  60. https://genius.com/albums/Elle-varner/Four-letter-word-ep
  61. https://ratedrnb.com/2014/03/elle-varner-announces-new-album-4-letter-word/
  62. https://ratedrnb.com/2019/05/elle-varner-announces-ellevation-mixtape-shares-track-list/
  63. https://exclaim.ca/music/article/elle_varner-ellevation
  64. https://music.apple.com/us/album/ellevation/1463134323
  65. https://www.albumoftheyear.org/album/157307-elle-varner-ellevation/user-reviews/?type=ratings
  66. https://ratedrnb.com/2019/04/elle-varner-releases-new-single-kinda-love/
  67. https://www.beatsource.com/release/wanderer-revised-tribute-to-jimmy-varner-and-rodney-james/2878078
  68. https://thisisrnb.com/2012/08/elle-varner-gets-down-with-brandy-cover-at-perfectly-imperfect-release-concert/
  69. https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2012/08/17/elle-varner-perfectly-wonderful/
  70. https://inquisitivecarter.com/elle-varner-to-embark-on-2023-the-lucky-tour/
  71. https://www.concertarchives.org/concerts/elle-varner-d01c42fc-b2a1-4dda-aded-6e6fd71a77ae
  72. https://www.bossxlthemag.com/post/elle-varner-refilled-reignited-and-ready-to-love-again
  73. https://www.fusicology.com/events/elle-varner-love-me-again-tour-boston-city-winery/
  74. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/kanye-west-gives-surprise-sxsw-performance-at-2-chainz-show-501390/
  75. https://www.essence.com/festival/2012-essence-music-festival/2012-essence-music-festival-lineup/
  76. https://www.essence.com/awards-events/2019-essence-festival/essence-festival-2019-lineup/
  77. https://ratedrnb.com/2019/07/recap-top-25-moments-from-essence-2019/
  78. https://thisisrnb.com/2016/12/watch-maxwell-elle-varner-surprise-duet-and-soul-cypher-with-ro-james-stacy-barthe/
  79. https://www.bet.com/article/xkkzva/elle-varner-proves-the-power-of-letting-go-so-you-can-glow
  80. https://www.bet.com/article/z12ao7/bet-awards-13-nominations-announced
  81. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/soul-train-awards-2012-honor-new-edition-beyonce/
  82. https://ratedrnb.com/2012/11/2012-soul-train-awards-winners/
  83. https://ratedrnb.com/2024/04/black-music-honors-2024-honorees-johnny-gill-patrice-rushen-bootsy-collins/
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