10 Questions with ... Elice Cuff

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

During my senior year of college, I served as an intern for Entercom in Virginia Beach, VA, and then traveled to Nashville to intern for the CMT Radio Network. After graduation (2010), I returned to Nashville to complete a freelance position with CMT. Before landing a full-time gig with All Access, I assisted Schatzi Hageman at Hot Schotz PR, and her partner company Noise New Media.

1) Welcome to All Access Elice, what steered you towards getting into the music industry in the first place?

Thanks! Throughout my childhood, I would force my parents to take me to any concert I could possibly get them to attend. Whether it was NSYNC or a local Country music festival, I always wanted to know more about what went on behind the scenes, and the story behind a song. College allowed me to learn the different communication tracks I needed to become more familiar with the music industry. After interning with a local radio station and a syndicated show, I found radio to be the most appealing.

2) Aside from 'needing a gig,' what interested you in the All Access position?

I had multiple radio internships prior to working for All Access, and each company used the site as a dominate news outlet. Since I've always been intrigued with radio and I love telling stories, I thought this would be a perfect fit. I also enjoy learning about new music, and after hearing I would be contacting different radio stations, I was sold. I think it's really interesting to hear opinions on songs, and why people feel the way they do.

3) You are semi-new to the biz, but you've done a lot already-who are some of the people who have helped and inspired you so far?

For starters my family has been more supportive of my decisions than words can describe. They've taught me to keep pushing myself and never give up on something you really want. My mom in particular is the most inspiring person in my world. Throughout college, my professor, Dr. Jackson, always made me test my limits and work hard to get the most out of what I wanted to achieve. My boss at CMT, Jean Williams (Director), has been one of the most enlightening people I've met in Nashville. There is so much to learn about this industry, and anytime I walked out of the building I learned something new from her.

4) Did you always like Country music? What other types of music do you like?

Oh yes! Country music is all about telling a story, which is what I love, and it always has the most relatable lyrics. Nashville has shown me so many different varieties of Country - it's like my own personal heaven. Besides Country music, I basically worship every word out of Adele's mouth. I think Jay-Z is a lyrical genius, Lady Gaga is inspiring, and I'm not going to lie, I own every song Glee has ever featured.

5) You grew up right across the street from the beach right? Do you miss lovely Maryland?

Well since it is summer, it's impossible not to miss the beach. I would be lying if I didn't say I wish I could spend my Saturdays in Ocean City, but luckily I have access to a pool. There are always times I miss home, but when you're 12 hours away, you learn to make family away from family.

6) It said in your bio that you love honky Tonkin.' What places do you love? And why?

Oh yes! Live music, especially on Broadway is always a good time when you're with me. I usually enjoy The Stage and Crossroads, but I normally stop at whichever bar is playing "Wagon Wheel." I do enjoy going to shows at 3rd & Lindsley, and any place with a songwriters round. Nothing beats an acoustic show.

7) What did you do at CMT-give us a quick snapshot?

My first experience with CMT was working as in intern for the CMT Radio Network. Each day I assisted the Producer with the Daily Prep and artist interviews. After my internship ended, I served as a freelance assistant writing entertainment stories, prepped interviews, and edited audio.

8) Tell us one thing crazy that not a lot of people know about you?

Oh man, when I was in 3rd grade I was invited through a school program to sing with Kenny Rogers, during his Christmas special in my hometown. As I was leaving the stage I thought it would be a clever idea to throw a styrofoam snowball in his direction. I accidentally pegged him in the shoulder. Sorry Kenny!

9) You were a lacrosse player in college? How did you get into that, and if you don't play the sport anymore, the stick makes an excellent bass for an air-guitar band.

I've always enjoyed playing any type of sport whether it was soccer, lacrosse, softball, etc., since I was a kid. My core group of girlfriends in college all played the sport, so I decided I didn't want to be left out, and went out for the team. It was the best decision I made because my team and coaches taught me so many things about life and how important it is to have commitments on and off the field.

10) Aside from working at All Access what would be your dream gig?

Well since it's my dream job, could I be hired to be Chelsea Handler's friend? After reading all her books and religiously watching Chelsea Lately, I think she could teach me a few life lessons.

1) What current music are you loving?

This is such a tough question! If I had to choose my top three at the moment it would be, "Me and Your Cigarettes" by Miranda Lambert, "The Cave" by Mumford & Sons, "You and I" by Lady Gaga

2) What kind of great movies have you seen?

"Bridesmaids" is hands down the best comical movie I have seen in a long time!

3) Favorite junk food?

Pretzel Salad, but only if my Aunt Neda makes it.