'I went from singing outside shops to TikTok star'

Elliot James Reay, a 23-year-old singer from Bury, Greater Manchester, has experienced an incredible journey from singing outside shops to becoming a TikTok sensation with millions of followers. His music is inspired by the era of Elvis Presley, and he has a unique style that brings back the sounds of the 1950s and 1960s. Recently, Elliot released a northern soul track called Who Knew Dancing Was A Sin, which has been well received by fans worldwide. This song was inspired by his partner’s parents, who are fans of northern soul music, and it tells a story about going out dancing and having a good time without worrying about what others think.

Elliot’s rise to fame has taken him on tours across South East Asia, including countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia. He has performed in shopping malls and large venues, attracting thousands of fans who enjoy his retro-inspired music. He explains that karaoke is very popular in these countries, especially songs from the 1960s to the 1990s, which fits perfectly with his musical style. One of the highlights of his career was visiting Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home in Memphis, USA, after receiving an award there. Elliot describes the visit as eye-opening and better than he had imagined.

Looking ahead, Elliot’s main goal for 2025 is to continue touring, both in England and abroad. He is eager to share many new songs he has been working on and wants to perform his current hits repeatedly for his fans. Despite his busy schedule, Elliot finds time to relax by playing snooker, a game he enjoys because it helps him focus and unwind. His story is a great example of how dedication and passion for music can lead to success and connect people from different parts of the world.