Elaine Gibbs
Community Liason Officer
ELAINE Gibbs began her life in music at the tender age of 13 where she got her start as many R&B phenomenon’s, in church. Those early experiences still greatly influence her vocal sensibilities today.
Her accomplishments are many, including her recent appearance on Season 1 of “The X Factor” as one of the over thirty (30) finalists, where she wowed judges with her interpretation of “Stop Crying Your Heart Out” by Oasis. LA Reid, Simon Cowell, Nicole and Paula Abdul commented; that she is one of the best singers they had ever encountered. Elaine performed her tribute to Aretha Franklin on Jimmy Kimmel’s “Clash of the Cover Bands”, hosted by the Late Twitch. Elaine has been a featured performer for “Divas Simply Singing” a star-studded fundraiser for HIV/AIDS. For the past twenty-five (25) years Elaine has helped to raise the awareness of HIV/AIDS with legendary artists from the Music industry. Elaine regularly performs for Judge Mabeline Efraim’s annual Fundraiser with artist such as Donnie McClurkin. Elaine travels throughout the country presenting a tribute to Aretha Franklin. Audiences close their eyes and are transported into the world of Aretha’s music, by listening to Elaine’s perform these songs.
Elaine has been very busy since “The X Factor”, writing, producing and performing for private clients and public figures, including; At the 2011 Congressional Session (State House in Sacramento, CA) as Special Guest Artist for Assemblyman Mike Davis, 2011 Annual Living Legends Award, 6th Annual Evening Under The Stars and The Annual Garden Party of the Regalettes.
Elaine has recently released a new single “Stand Up”. This single was written by Elaine Gibbs and and Kenny Smith on the AirTight label. “Stand Up” is available now on iTunes and is being distributed through AirTight Entertainment.
Elaine lent her heartfelt and emotional voice to a music video for TV1’s Black History Month called “Martin Can You Hear Us”, designed to reconnect Americans to the importance of Dr. King’s teachings.
Elaine has performed in over 25 countries. Elaine has worked with some of the biggest names in the world of Gospel such as the late Rev. James Cleveland, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Tramaine Hawkins and Shirley Caesar. Elaine has worked with R & B artists such as; Kenny Lattimore, Bobby Womack, Cherrelle, Miki Howard and The Gap Band. On a broader scale she has sung for Rod Stewart and performed at recent galas honoring individuals such as Kenneth ‘Babyface’ Edmonds, Angela Bassett, Stephanie Mills and Chaka Khan.
Elaine has also collaborated on a duet with the late Ollie Woodson (of The legendary Temptations). Elaine’s voice is highlighted in the film “This Christmas” produced by and starring actor Mekhi Pfeifer and also starring Chris Brown. Elaine has also performed live with Justin Timberlake for Victoria Secret’s TV show.
Elaine released her very first R&B album as a young lead singer with the R & B group Side Effect. The Billboard magazine - the record industry’s bible, wrote that Elaine was “a voice to be reckoned with” comparing her voice to legends as Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight and Chaka Khan.
Elaine passion for helping others is ever present in her dedication to the plight of persons living with HIV/AIDS. Elaine has been actively involved with the Minority AIDS Project (a non-profit organization) for over 35 years. Elaine has been a tireless advocate to help raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in communities of color. Elaine Co-produced a benefit for Minority AIDS Project, “A Salute to Donny Hathaway” which was held at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center. Elaine called on her friends from the entertainment industry, such as Kenny Lattimore, Ali Woodson (Late Lead Singer of the Temptations), TC Carson (Actor), Annie McKnight (BET Comedian), Desiree Coleman (Vocalist). A special award was presented to Lalah Hathaway (Vocalist) to honor her late father (Donny Hathaway) for his outstanding musical gifts.
Elaine performed with the legendary Lionel Richie at a benefit concert. Lionel was wowed by; Elaine’s incredible voice and God given talent.
Elaine has worked with Minority AIDS Project for the past thirty (30) years as an Ambassador for HIV/AIDS in Los Angeles. Elaine uses her platform to raise awareness, encourage safer sex and to educate young men and women about the importance of prevention.
Beyond Elaine’s natural gifts she has further her vocal training under the tutelage of Seth Riggs and Brad Chapman at Seth Riggs Vocal Studio at the University of Southern California. Elaine’s underlying belief is, her voice was created by; God for greatness, and it with this greatness she delivers a pure emotional connection straight to the heart of anyone who listens.