Gig Preview: ELI + Gemma Ballam
Friday 21st August 2026
The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham – Doors: 7:30 pm
A rising force in the UK alternative scene steps into the spotlight as ELI headlines The Sunflower Lounge on Friday 21st August, joined by special guest Gemma Ballam for a night built on vulnerability, power and fearless self‑expression.
ELI is an artist who thrives in the space between genres, blending pop, RnB and electronic influences into a sound that feels both nostalgic and boldly forward‑thinking. His music carries a raw emotional charge: heartfelt, rebelliously vulnerable lyrics delivered through a voice that moves effortlessly between tenderness and full‑throttle intensity.
Shaped by a childhood spent absorbing his parents’ record collection, spanning Prince, Whitney Houston, Radiohead and more, ELI’s songwriting balances intimacy with a determination to break cycles of self‑blame and victimhood.
Early singles ‘Dummy’, ‘15 + Alive’ and ‘Imagination’ introduced his confessional style, while ‘Rough’ and ‘Slow’ earned BBC Radio 1 support from Jess Iszatt. His recent Mahogany Session resonated deeply with queer audiences and beyond, amassing over 150k views in its first month and marking a turning point in his rise.
Opening the night is Birmingham‑based indie‑rock artist Gemma Ballam, originally from the Highlands of Scotland. Her music blends vulnerable lyricism, agile vocals and intoxicating guitar lines, crafting songs that feel both powerful and deeply personal. She’s quickly becoming one of the city’s most compelling new voices.
A night of bold storytelling, emotional release and genre‑blurring alt‑pop from two artists pushing their sound forward. If you’re looking for music that hits hard, feels honest and stays with you, this show is the one.
Don’t wait, secure your Advance Tickets today.