Meet Ellie Tomasso | Founder/Artist Manager of L.E Entertainment Ltd.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ellie Tomasso and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ellie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I first enrolled at CU Denver for Music Business, I found myself lacking knowledge in the business side of the industry. It wasn’t until I took an Artist Management course with Professor Chris Daniels that I discovered my passion for working as an Artist Manager. Chris Daniels opened my eyes to the exploitation that can occur when artists are unaware of the business side of the industry. As a former performer myself, I was frustrated by these stories and felt compelled to become an advocate for artists, ensuring they are informed and protected from exploitation.

I believe that artists are the foundation of the music industry, and their visions should be respected and supported. This belief inspired me to establish L.E Entertainment Ltd., a company that not only reflects my name but also embodies the mission of “Local Elevation.” My goal is to elevate local Colorado artists, particularly those in the Denver music scene who deserve greater recognition for their talents.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I grew up performing so I understand the vulnerability of putting yourself out there as a performer. After deciding on my college major, I committed myself to gaining as much knowledge and experience as possible in the music industry. Starting out in artist management, I knew it was crucial to work in various roles to gain a well-rounded understanding. I worked as a corporate/wedding DJ at A Music Plus, an office manager at a music school, and I am currently a Box Office Supervisor at AEG while running my own business. Despite the challenges of breaking into the industry, I have remained focused on learning and growing as a professional. I have attended numerous conferences including SXSW, The Great Escape, Folk Alliance International, and more. My goal is to continuously expand my knowledge and skills to help myself and my artists succeed. I’ve learned that it’s important to invest in people who support you and people you can learn from. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Breakfast/Brunch: Rupert’s, Sam’s No.3, Denver Biscuit Company

Coffee: Sojourner’s, Devil’s Cup

Activities: Drive up lookout mountain, hot springs in Idaho Springs, Pindustry for Skee-Ball , Concerts at Ogden/Mission Ballroom/Bluebird, Bar Hopping on Broadway, Lowry Beer Garden, Local Breweries, Denver Art Museum, day trip to Boulder, axe throwing

Lunch/Dinner: Sushi Katsu, Ace Eat Serve, Esters, Mezcal, Cheeba Hut, Junction Food Hall

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to express my gratitude to the individuals who have supported me on my journey thus far: the talented artists I have collaborated with and my mentors at CU Denver. Special thanks to Chris Kresge from The Colorado Sound for introducing me to Andy Sydow during my college days. Over the past 5 years, Andy and I have worked closely together, leading to opportunities to collaborate with incredible local artists such as Jeremy Facknitz, Julian Fulco Perron, Jelie, KJ Evans, Cass Clayton, Animal Farm, and many more. I would also like to acknowledge Nathalie Baret from Win-Win PR & Artist Management LLC for her recent collaboration and mentorship, as well as for nominating me for this interview.

Instagram: @l.e_entertainment

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-tomasso-78a53014a

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leentertainment303

Other: Links to current artists on my Roster: Andy Sydow: https://www.andysydow.com Animal Farm: https://www.animalfarmband.com

Image Credits
Alyssa Montaño Seth Beamer Sydney Jade