Billboard Hip-Hop Exclusive: Elijah Beaver aka Eli B Is Redefining Realness Through Music and Film
Written by b87fm on 12/05/2025
By Billboard Hip-Hop Staff
Rising artist and actor Elijah Beaver, known to the culture as Eli B, is quickly becoming one of the most compelling new voices breaking out of the Tri-State area. With roots stretching through Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware, and time spent grinding in both New York and Los Angeles, Eli B’s story is a blend of grit, versatility, and authenticity—qualities that have shaped both his music and acting careers.
Now gearing up for the release of his anticipated debut album Born 2 Be Real, Eli B is pushing forward with a message that resonates far beyond the studio: realness never goes out of style. His single “Real Recognize Real”, featuring Really Jaewon—the son of hip-hop icon Jadakiss—is already creating a wave that has the industry paying close attention.
Billboard Hip-Hop sat down with Eli B for an exclusive conversation about his journey, his craft, and what it truly means to “be real.”
Exclusive Interview with Eli B
Billboard Hip-Hop: Congratulations on your debut album Born 2 Be Real. What sparked the
vision behind this project?
Eli B: Thank you! The title comes from how I live my life. I’ve always believed in authenticity, no
matter if it’s in music, acting, or just everyday situations. Born 2 Be Real is me choosing to stand
on truth—and encouraging others to do the same.
Billboard Hip-Hop: Your single “Real Recognize Real” with Really Jaewon is gaining real
momentum. How did you two connect?
Eli B: Jaewon is incredibly talented, and of course he’s got legendary DNA being Jadakiss’ son.
We linked through mutual industry connections, vibed instantly in the studio, and the record
came together naturally. It’s about respect, authenticity—everything we both stand for.
Billboard Hip-Hop: You’re also making moves as an actor with roles in BET+’s “RSVP” and
Hulu’s “The Ultimate Playlist of Noise.” How do you balance acting and music?
Eli B: For me, acting and music are both storytelling. With acting, I become a character. With
music, I tell my own story. Balancing the two feels natural because I’m passionate about both
equally.
Billboard Hip-Hop: You’re a two-time award-winning actor. What did those wins mean to you?
Eli B: They were big moments—reminders that the hard work is being recognized. Awards aren’t
everything, but they do let you know the artistry is connecting.
Billboard Hip-Hop: You’ve lived in several major cities. How have those environments shaped
your artistry?
Eli B: Philly gave me grit. Jersey and Delaware gave me community. New York showed me
hustle. LA gave me vision and creativity. All of that influences who I am and the stories I tell.
Billboard Hip-Hop: What do you want listeners to feel when they hear Born 2 Be Real?
Eli B: I want them to feel truth—raw honesty. I want people to hear my story and see their own
reflections in it. Being real will always shine the brightest.
Billboard Hip-Hop: What’s next for Eli B after the album drops?
Eli B: More films, more music, more growth. I never want to be boxed in. My goal is to
inspire—whether through a verse or a character on screen.
What’s Next for Eli B
📀 Debut album: Born 2 Be Real — coming soon
🔥 Lead single: “Real Recognize Real” ft. Really Jaewon
🎬 Recent acting work:
RSVP (BET+)
The Ultimate Playlist of Noise (Hulu)
📌
Follow Eli B’s journey on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/share/19FQsP5Vw5/
