Elliot James Reay

Elliot James Reay: A Modern Voice with a Vintage Soul

Elliot James Reay is a British singer-songwriter and social media sensation celebrated for blending the nostalgic sounds of the 1950s with contemporary music. Born on January 31, 2002, in Bury, Greater Manchester, England, Elliot has rapidly ascended in the music industry, captivating audiences worldwide with his velvety vocals and heartfelt performances. 

Early Life and Musical Influences

Growing up in Bury, Elliot was immersed in the classic tunes of legends like Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and Billy Fury. These early influences shaped his musical style, inspiring him to emulate the rich, emotive qualities of 1950s rock and roll. His passion for this era's music became the foundation of his distinctive sound. 

Rise to Social Media Fame

Elliot's journey to stardom began in October 2019 when he launched his TikTok account, @elliotjamesreay. His authentic renditions of classic songs, often performed during daily activities like making coffee or combing his hair, resonated with viewers. Notable performances, such as his covers of Elvis Presley's "Devil in Disguise" and Ed Sheeran's "Thinking Out Loud," amassed over 26.4 million and 29.8 million views, respectively. By April 2025, his TikTok following had grown to over 3.9 million. 

Musical Career and Achievements

In July 2024, Elliot released his debut single, "I Think They Call This Love," a track that pays homage to the classic malt shop music of the 1950s. The song garnered over 10 million streams within its first month and appeared on Spotify's Viral charts in 27 countries, reaching #14 on the Global Viral 50. Following this success, he signed with Interscope Records and EMI, releasing his second single, "Boy In Love," in November 2024. ​

Elliot's commitment to authenticity is evident in his collaboration with producer duo SOAP. They utilized live instruments and vintage equipment, recording live to tape to capture the essence of the 1950s sound while minimizing digital manipulation. ​

International Recognition and Performances

Elliot's appeal transcends borders. He has performed in various Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. In January 2025, he made his Vietnam debut, further solidifying his international presence. His global reach was recognized when he won the Road To Memphis competition, leading to a performance in Tennessee and highlighting his dedication to mental health awareness through music.

Personal Life and Collaborations

Elliot often features his family in his content, with his mother appearing in several singing videos. His brother, Joshua Ord, gained recognition for starring in the UK McDonald's "mum's car" advertisement. In April 2021, Elliot engaged his followers by inviting them to duet with him on Bruno Mars' "Talking to the Moon," fostering a sense of community among his fans. ​

Recent Projects and Future Aspirations

Continuing to evolve as an artist, Elliot released his single "Daydreaming" in early 2025, showcasing his growth and versatility. With a burgeoning international fanbase and a commitment to preserving the timeless qualities of 1950s music, Elliot James Reay is poised to leave a lasting impact on the modern music scene.​