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The music industry needs to start prioritizing health and wellness more, and Elaine P. Allen Landy is here to do just that.

Cofounder of Vybe Vault RnB and author of The Ageless Athlete, Landy is the true definition of a health and wellness advocate. And she doesn’t just talk the talk, she walks the walk. Her background in wellness yields a strong commitment to nutritious eating, a positive mindset, and regular physical activity — especially when it comes to the high-pressure entertainment industry. 

Now, Elaine is excited as ever to bring back Vybe Vault RnB, the live talent showcase platform for rising and unsigned talent. Co-founded by music industry legend Morace Landy (who’s worked with some of the biggest names: Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, Luther Vandross, Babyface, T.I., Fat Joe, Missy Elliott), Vybe Vault RnB is excited as ever to announce their next event, taking place on September 4th at The Sultan Room in Brooklyn, New York. 

Elaine sat down with Sheen Magazine to discuss the upcoming Vybe Vault RnB live showcase and her advocacy for health and wellness, highlighting how her dedication to fostering well-being drives creative excellence and peak performance in the music industry.

Elaine, can you tell us about the inspiration behind launching Vybe Vault RnB?

The idea for Vybe Vault RnB really came from my love for music and wanting to see R&B shine again. When I was growing up, we had so many amazing voices that really spoke to us, icons like Luther Vandross and Whitney Houston. They were everywhere, and their music had this way of bringing people together and telling stories that resonated with everyone.

But over the years, it seems like R&B has been pushed aside with the rise of rap and other genres. It was time to bring R&B back to the forefront and give it the spotlight it deserves.

I also see so many young people on social media with incredible voices, but without the right platform they often go unnoticed. Vybe Vault RnB is all about changing that. We’re giving these talented artists a stage to perform and helping them connect with people who can help them take their careers to the next level. It’s all about creating opportunities and making sure R&B continues to thrive and inspire the next generation of musicians.

What sets Vybe Vault RnB apart from other music showcase platforms?

What sets Vybe Vault RnB apart from other music showcase platforms is our deep commitment to nurturing and developing new talent in the R&B genre. While many platforms offer performance opportunities, we go beyond that by creating a true community where artists can grow and thrive. We don’t just showcase talent; we provide mentorship and networking opportunities with industry executives who have the experience and connections to make a real difference in an artist’s career.

A crucial aspect that we focus on is offering what has been largely taken away in today’s music industry: artist development. We believe in investing time and resources into helping artists refine their craft, hone their skills, and develop their unique sound and style. This is something that has become rare in the industry, but it’s essential for building a sustainable career in music.

Moreover, our focus on the R&B genre sets us apart. While many platforms cater to a wide range of music styles, Vybe Vault RnB is dedicated to reviving and celebrating the rich legacy of R&B. We want to ensure that this powerful and soulful genre has a prominent place in the modern music landscape.

How has your partnership with Morace Landy influenced the vision and direction of Vybe Vault RnB? 

Partnering with my husband Morace Landy in Vybe Vault RnB has been an amazing experience, not just professionally but also personally. This dynamic brings a unique synergy and understanding to our collaboration. Morace’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the music industry have been invaluable in shaping our platform’s vision and direction. Having worked with some of the biggest names in music, his ability to spot and nurture talent is truly inspiring. Together, we share a passion for music and a commitment to creating opportunities for emerging artists. 

Morace’s insights and connections have helped us design a platform that not only showcases new voices, but also provides them with the mentorship and resources they need to succeed. His wealth of knowledge about what it takes to thrive in this competitive industry has been crucial in helping us focus on artist development, which is a key component of Vybe Vault RnB.  Being husband and wife adds another layer of strength to our partnership. It means we’re always in sync and can make decisions quickly and effectively, with a shared vision and understanding. This personal connection allows us to support each other fully as we work to bring R&B back to the forefront of the music scene, ensuring that talented artists have the chance to be heard and celebrated.

What were the highlights from the inaugural Vybe Vault RnB showcase held on May 15th?

One of the highlights of the inaugural Vybe Vault RnB showcase on May 15th was seeing the artists connect with industry executives and music lovers alike. The atmosphere was electric, and it was inspiring to witness these talented individuals finally get the platform they deserve. After each performance, the judges provided valuable feedback, which the artists genuinely appreciated. This interaction allowed them to gain insights and refine their craft further.  

The feedback from attendees was also overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the high caliber of performances and the seamless organization of the event. Numerous attendees personally thanked us for creating this platform, expressing how much it meant to see R&B getting the spotlight it deserves. We also had some special moments where established artists and industry veterans shared their experiences and offered words of encouragement to the newcomers. It was a great reminder of the supportive community we’re building at Vybe Vault RnB.

Overall, the showcase was a resounding success, and it reinforced our mission to bring R&B back to the forefront of the music industry. It was an incredible start to what we hope will be many more events that highlight the amazing talent out there.

What can attendees expect from the upcoming showcase on September 4th?

Attendees of the upcoming Vybe Vault RnB showcase on September 4th can expect an even more exciting and dynamic event. We’re thrilled to have an increased presence of industry professionals and media representatives this time, which means more opportunities for our artists to make valuable connections and gain exposure. The level of talent continues to rise, and this showcase will feature some of the most impressive performances yet. The competition is fierce, and we know the judges will have a tough time selecting the final 3 artists, as each performer brings something unique and powerful to the stage.

In addition to the outstanding performances, attendees can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere where music lovers, industry insiders, and artists come together to celebrate R&B. It promises to be an unforgettable night, filled with soulful music and inspiring moments. We’re eager to see how this event further elevates the profiles of the talented artists who are part of Vybe Vault RnB.

How do you select the artists who participate in the showcases, and what qualities do you look for?

Selecting artists for our Vybe Vault RnB showcase is an exciting but challenging process because we now have so many to choose from. We focus on finding artists who bring something unique and authentic to the table. We look for vocal ability, stage presence, and a genuine passion for their craft. It’s important to us that the artists are not only talented, but also dedicated to their growth and willing to embrace the journey of developing their skills and artistry. 

We also pay attention to their storytelling ability and how they connect with their audience. R&B is all about emotion and conveying stories through music, so artists who can captivate and move an audience stand out to us. We want artists who can bring the essence of R&B to life, while also pushing the genre forward with their own distinctive style and perspective.

Ultimately, we’re looking for artists who are ready to take their careers to the next level and make the most of the platform and opportunities that Vybe Vault RnB offers. Our goal is to support and showcase those who are committed to making a meaningful impact in the music world.

How does Vybe Vault RnB help bridge the gap between emerging artists and industry professionals? 

At Vybe Vault RnB, we’re all about helping emerging artists get the recognition they deserve by bridging the gap between them and industry professionals. Our showcases are key to this, providing artists with the opportunity to perform in front of influential music executives, producers, and media reps who can help take their careers to the next level. We create a space where artists and industry pros can connect and collaborate. After each performance, artists get valuable feedback, which helps them grow and refine their craft. It’s not just about getting up on stage; it’s about building relationships with people who can open doors and offer guidance. We’re passionate about artist development, so we offer mentorship and resources to help them navigate the industry. We want to make sure they have all the tools they need to succeed and thrive.

Ultimately, it’s about giving talented artists the chance to be heard and recognized for their unique contributions to R&B. We’re excited to see how these connections help artists grow and bring their music to a wider audience.

With your background in fitness and wellness, how do you integrate these elements into your work with Vybe Vault RnB? 

With my background in fitness and wellness, I plan to integrate these elements into Vybe Vault RnB by emphasizing a holistic approach to health. I believe wellness includes mental, emotional, and physical fitness, all crucial for artists to perform at their best and sustain successful careers. As we work with artists, I’ll encourage them to maintain a balanced lifestyle, focusing on exercise, nutrition, and self-care practices like mindfulness and stress management. A healthy artist is better equipped to handle the industry’s demands and deliver powerful performances.  We aim to foster a culture of wellness within Vybe Vault RnB, providing resources and guidance to support artists’ well-being. Our goal is to help them thrive both on and off the stage, creating music that resonates with audiences.

How do you maintain your own fitness and wellness routine while managing such a demanding role? 

Balancing my fitness and wellness routine with the demands of Vybe Vault RnB comes down to making health a priority. I stick to a regular workout schedule, incorporating activities I love, like power walking to keep my energy up.  For mental and emotional wellness, I practice mindfulness and stress management techniques, such as meditation and journaling. Taking time to recharge helps me stay focused and ready to support others.  By weaving wellness into my daily life, I can bring my best self to both my work and personal life, even when things get busy.

In what ways do you think a focus on health and wellness can benefit emerging artists, especially in such a competitive industry? 

Focusing on health and wellness is super important for emerging artists, especially in the fast-paced music industry. Keeping physically fit boosts energy and stamina, which is a must for handling performances and busy schedules.  Mental and emotional well-being are key too. Practicing mindfulness and managing stress help artists stay grounded and focused when things get tough. This balance can boost creativity and performance while making it easier to handle the pressures of the industry.  By prioritizing health and wellness, artists set themselves up for long, successful careers. It gives them a solid foundation to grow personally and professionally, ensuring they can truly enjoy the journey.

What are your long-term goals for Vybe Vault RnB?

My long-term goals for Vybe Vault RnB are to expand our reach and impact by taking our showcases on the road to all states and even internationally. I want to create more opportunities for emerging artists to connect with audiences and industry professionals, no matter where they are.  By hosting events across the country and around the world, we can discover new talent and help artists gain exposure on a larger scale. This expansion will allow us to build a global community of R&B lovers and provide a platform for artists to share their unique voices and stories. 

Ultimately, I want Vybe Vault RnB to be recognized as a leading platform for nurturing and showcasing R&B talent worldwide, helping to revive and celebrate this incredible genre. Through these efforts, we aim to inspire and support the next generation of artists, ensuring that R&B continues to thrive and evolve.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to make their mark in the R&B genre?

To aspiring artists looking to make their mark in the R&B genre, my advice is to stay true to your unique voice and never stop honing your craft. Dedicate yourself to continuous learning and growth, and don’t be afraid to take risks with your music. Building genuine connections with others in the industry is essential, so network actively and seek mentorship from those who inspire you.  

How can artists get involved with Vybe Vault RnB?

To get involved with Vybe Vault RnB, keep an eye on our announcements for showcase opportunities and reach out to us with your music. We’re always on the lookout for fresh talent and passionate artists who are ready to share their stories. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination: embrace it, and keep pushing forward.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of VYBE VAULT RNB