Ciara-Camile Roque Velasco, known professionally as Eli-Mac, was born on September 1, 1985, in Makati, Philippines. At the age of two, she moved with her family to Haiku, Maui, Hawaii. Growing up in a musically inclined household, Eli-Mac was exposed to a diverse range of genres, including her mother's love for '70s disco and '80s Madonna, and her father's appreciation for '60s classic rock and jazz. This eclectic musical environment laid the foundation for her unique sound, blending elements of reggae, R&B, and hip-hop. At 18, Eli-Mac gained national recognition as a Top 10 finalist on Season 3 of 'American Idol.' Her performances showcased her distinctive style and vocal prowess, earning her a dedicated fan base.
Following her 'American Idol' journey, she recorded a rendition of Bob Marley's 'Guava Jelly,' produced by Stephen Marley at Tuff Gong Studios in Jamaica. This track earned her the Hawaii Music Awards' 'Single of the Year' and solidified her presence in the reggae music scene. In 2014, Eli-Mac released her debut EP, 'Dubstop,' produced by JP Kennedy of The Green and Leslie Ludiazo of Hot Rain. The EP featured a fusion of roots reggae, hip-hop, and R&B, exemplified in tracks like 'Mr. Sensi' featuring Conkarah.
Her subsequent releases, including 'Can't Get Enough' and 'Roots Girl,' further showcased her ability to blend genres seamlessly. Collaborations with artists like Collie Buddz on the single 'Résumé' highlighted her versatility and appeal within the reggae community. Eli-Mac's contributions to reggae music are marked by her ability to infuse traditional reggae with contemporary influences, creating a sound that resonates with a broad audience. Her performances at major festivals such as the One Love Festival and Cali Roots, as well as sharing stages with icons like Lauryn Hill, Sublime, and Shaggy, underscore her impact on the genre. Her music often reflects her Hawaiian upbringing, incorporating themes of island life and cultural pride.
As of 2025, Eli-Mac continues to be an active force in the reggae music scene. She has been touring extensively across the United States and internationally, performing at events like the Mai Tai Festival in Long Beach, California. Her recent single 'Résumé' featuring Collie Buddz has been well-received, and she is reportedly working on a new studio album set for release later this year. Eli-Mac remains dedicated to her craft, continually evolving her sound while staying true to her roots.
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