Thanks for your time. So tell us, in what part of the First Coast do you reside now, and how long have you lived there?
As a band, we are spread all across this beautiful city of Jacksonville, but Mia & Jonathan grew up on the Northside.
When did you know you had an interest in music?
For some of us, the love of music started as early as childhood, while for others, church played a major role in shaping our musical journeys. For example, our vocalist, Mia, was singing and making up songs from a young age, while our keyboardist, Jarvis, was drawn to the power and influence of gospel music while growing up in church.
Those early experiences helped shape our appreciation for music in all its forms. Today, we carry that love into every performance, hoping to create moments that people don’t just hear, but truly feel.
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
Mia initially started out playing clarinet before a band teacher recognized her vocal gift and encouraged her to pursue singing, while her brother Jonathan sort of took a liking to all sorts of instruments before really focusing in on drums, but even that didn’t last long. We are pretty versatile as a whole because we all can play more than one instrument.
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
We are Heart Of Elaine
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
Our musical influences are as diverse as our sound! From Prince to Stevie Wonder, and newcomers like Justin L. Schultz, we admire artists who push boundaries and connect with people on a deeper level. Those are the kinds of artists who inspire us, and that same spirit of connection is something we strive to bring to every Heart of Elaine performance.
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?
Getting to be a headliner for the Myrtle Beach Jazz Fest was truly a highlight, but the guys love anytime when Mia moves the entire room to either dance, sing, or sometimes even cry. All in all, when the band chemistry gets to ride on top of an amazing groove that they probably just made up in the moment, there’s nothing like it.
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
Honestly, we’re fans of live music as a whole! The First Coast has so much talent, and we love getting out to support other local bands and musicians whenever we can. Whether it’s catching a live set, showing love at a jam session, or connecting with other artists, we appreciate the passion and creativity that everyone brings to the local scene. There’s always something special to experience when you show up and support live music!
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
We’ve been fortunate to perform at some great venues around the First Coast, and each one brings something different to the experience! We always enjoy the atmosphere and energy at Island Girl in Ponte Vedra, and Grape & Grain is another spot we love performing at. Honestly, we appreciate any venue that values live music, creates a welcoming atmosphere, and gives us the opportunity to connect with the audience.
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
Check us out at Jax Porchfest!! Saturday, Nov. 7th from 12 p.m.- 1 p.m. on the porch at 233 W. 4th St.
What is the best way for musicians to network?
We would say the best way for musicians to network is to get out there, go to shows, go to live music venues. Connections are always better made in person.
Are there any local venue owners/managers that you would like to rave about?
We truly appreciate all the local venue owners and managers who make space for live music and support local artists! But we have to give a special shoutout to Mrs. Rose at Island Girl in Ponte Vedra. She has shown Heart of Elaine so much love and genuinely appreciates the gift we bring through our music. That kind of support means more to us than words can express.
If you had a question you would like to ask another musician, what would it be?
We have a couple of dream questions! Mia would love the opportunity to ask Chaka Khan if she could sing with her—and honestly, who wouldn’t want that moment?
Jarvis would ask Stevie Wonder how he creates music that feels so vivid and emotionally powerful. To us, the greatest music goes beyond a catchy melody or a good time.
Personal hobbies or interests? Family?
Music, music, and more music! Haha. We are all musicians through and through if we’re not actively performing, then we’re practicing or writing or producing or teaching. Either way, it’s all music all the time.
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
The sense of community and the opportunity to be part of such a vibrant local music scene. We love the way the music here brings people from different backgrounds together, whether it’s at a festival, a local venue, or an outdoor performance where everybody can sing, dance, and enjoy the moment together.
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band? Links to your website?
You can find us as Heart of Elaine on all socials or visit our website www.heartofelaine.com
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone reading this?
Come experience Heart of Elaine live at Jax Porchfest on November 7 from 12–1 PM! Expect soulful sounds, familiar favorites, high energy, and an experience expertly designed for the people. We can’t wait to see y’all out there!
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Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
