Episode 141: Interview With Singer Elle Townley

At just 16 years old, Elle Townley is proving that country music's future is bold, fearless, and entirely authentic. The Georgetown, Texas native is back with “Taking Off My Halo,” a powerhouse country rock single that blends raw honesty with electrifying attitude. The track, available everywhere digitally on June 27, premiered exclusively via The Country Note, marking Townley’s return with her first original release in three years.

The song itself carries an unexpected legacy. Originally written in 1995 by veteran songwriter Sheri Swartz—affectionately known in the industry as “Songbird”—the track was first intended for country superstar LeAnn Rimes. After decades in the vault, Swartz resurrected the song during a recent session with Elle, realizing it had finally found its rightful voice.

“It took 30 years for this song to find its home,” said Swartz. “Elle took it to a whole new level, and I’m proud to have a Sheri Swartz and Elle Townley collaboration!”

For Elle, “Taking Off My Halo” represents a coming-of-age moment—both personally and artistically. “I’ve always been a rule follower—a total goody two-shoes,” she shared. “This song is about letting go of all that pressure and just allowing myself to be wild and free. Even if it’s just for one night!”

That newfound freedom is something Elle has worked hard to earn. A seasoned performer despite her age, she’s been singing since she could speak, taking her first vocal lesson at age six (bribed with a toy by her mom) and performing publicly by eight. “Once I stepped on stage, I was absolutely horrified,” she admitted. “But I immediately fell in love with it. I was like, this is what I was called to do.”

By ten, she had picked up a guitar—thanks in part to encouragement from fellow musician Landon Wall in Nashville—and began writing her own songs shortly after. “My first song was about a fourth-grade crush who broke my heart,” she laughed. “But songwriting became my therapy. It’s how I process emotions and tell my story.”

Now, with “Taking Off My Halo,” Elle taps into a universal narrative—one of stepping into womanhood, breaking free from expectations, and embracing independence under the glow of neon lights.

“When I perform this song, it’s not just about me,” she said. “It’s about every girl who’s ever felt the pressure to be perfect. It’s an anthem for anyone ready to step into their power.”

Elle recorded the track at Beagle’s Nest Studio in New Braunfels, Texas with producer Zack Walther, giving it a gritty, modern sound layered over classic country storytelling. The result is a single that feels both timeless and right on time.

Beyond the studio, Elle continues to light up the Texas music scene with a touring schedule packed with dates across the state. “Texas is my home,” she said. “They say conquer your state before you go anywhere else—and I’m working on it!”

With accolades that include finalist honors in the Houston Rodeo Rockstar competition, a win at the Old Settler’s Music Festival Youth Competition, and multiple nominations from the Texas Country Music Association, Elle is no stranger to recognition. But it’s her grounded approach and unmistakable voice that truly set her apart.

“I’m a young artist with an old soul,” she reflected. “And I’m only just getting started.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eoAze7_jzM

🎧 To hear the full conversation with Elle Townley, tune in to her episode on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience, streaming now.