A musician as passionate and individualistic as Eli Hannon is hard to come by these days. Working on his first ever record, “Haven,” he describes his genre as alternative laced with R&B, but noted that everyone can find a little something they like in his music. 

Hannon dives into his own musical style, creating a true journey for listeners. Prepare yourself for the piano melodies, soft and subtle, and for the pure, angelic vocals that he brings to each song. Some songs lean more towards the pop side of modern day music, while others are composed to be an entire orchestra-oriented voyage. 

“It all started with me just doing this for myself, wanting to see where it goes, but I do have listeners in mind,” Hannon said. 

Hannon recently moved from Atlanta to Muscle Shoals in July 2023. He has been a musician for about five years, and when presented with an opportunity to record and produce at Sheffield’s Ivy Manor, he took his chance. 

Frequent trips back and forth between Atlanta and Muscle Shoals resulted in Hannon moving entirely here to the area. 

“This is the coolest place I’ve ever been,” Hannon said. “Definitely in terms of community between musicians and artists.”

He compared the Florence area to other places he has been, but nothing is “realer” than the relationships he has built here with other musicians. 

Although Eli holds his piano and keyboard talents near and dear to his heart, he can also serve on the bass guitar and most percussion instruments. 

“Really any instrument I can get my hands on, I’m very interested in learning how to play it,” he said.

Hannon produces, writes and sings his own collective works. He’s working endlessly and relentlessly on his first ever album, “Haven.” The album will consist of 15 songs, each unique to his particular vision. 

“I find it incredible how lucky I was to end up here, and to do something that I’ve made myself responsible for,” he said.

Some of Hannon’s musical inspirations include Maggie Rogers, Bruno Mars, Stevie Wonder, Laufey, Jacob Collier and Lewis Cole. 

“[Cole] is one of the greatest musicians ever,” Hannon said. “What I really like is his lyrics. They are truly searing and leave you in pain.” 

What does not go unnoticed is Hannon’s true desire and love for music, and one can say he was practically born with his musical talent embedded within. His father, Dan Hannon, has been in the industry a long time. 

“He is one of the most brilliant men I know,” he said.

Dan Hannon has worked with Manchester Orchestra for 18 years, serving as a model for what impressive success looks like, and that has motivated Eli Hannon his entire life. Coming full circle, Manchester Orchestra is working on their next record, at the same time as Eli Hannon, at the same studio. 

“I don’t know if I could have ever experienced that if the stars hadn’t aligned to bring us here to this special place,” Eli Hannon said.

At only 19, Hannon is already booking shows. Mark your calendars for Jan. 27, as he will take the stage at Lava Room. On Feb. 14, he will play at For the Record. 

“Bring everyone because we’re trying to sell those places out,” Hannon said.

His music is raw, and his music is real, which makes it a true testament to the individual whom it’s coming from. Hannon is truly a passionate and affable young man, creating the highest of standards for what musicians should aspire to be.