Expression is what drives most of us. Some have a need to express a life in a book, express a love story in a song, or the need to share a posittive story to motivate others. Elika Crespo is a model, singer, and independent artist in the entertainment industry. An independent woman,working and living her passion for expression in performing arts andmusic.

Elika has been successful in her acting career, she was recently a starring lead in the movie "SPIN", directed by Dan Neira. Youcan also see her appearing as a lead in Pitbull's music video "Secret Admirer, and on DjMuggs Vs Sick Jacken - "Land of Shadows" video. She is also very busywith commercials. This year alone she has been recording commercials for Ford, BOSE sound system, and made an appearance on "Dexter" and"Everybody Hates Chris".

Elika is also working on her music career. Get a glimpse on how Elika hooked up with hip hop lyricist CHINO XL, and her plans on the music end.

From TV shows, music videos, and movies Elika is able to maintain her balance with work and life. Her dedication and hard work earn her respect that allows her to connect with other similar people. In return she is able to choose her own goals and guide her own career.

We hooked up with Elika and she gave us an insight on how she manages her own career and how she likes to enjoy her healthy life.



LaUnion1910: We have seen you modeling on the pages of OYE Magazine, Pitbull's music video, acting on Dan Neiras "SPIN" movie, and modeling on some of JOKER's marketing materials.From modeling to acting, what have been some of your most rewarding experiences in your modeling and acting career?

Elika Crespo:There has been so many rewarding experiences its hard to mention them all. The ability to work on different projects and meet so many unique and interesting people is rewarding. The masses of people you can reach on an emotional level is also very gratifying, specially when there is an important message to relay.

LaUnion1910: LaUnion1910: Tells us about your experience with Director Dan Neira and the cast for the movie "SPIN"?

Elika Crespo: Dan is an amazing man and director. I was blessed to have met him and that he was willing to choose me as one of the leads of his film. He had faith in me. Aside from attaining the obvious, its as simple and complex as finding those few people that genuinely believe in you and have no hidden agendas.......Dan is one of them.

LaUnion1910: We recently saw you in Pitbull's video "Secret Admirer", how did you link up with Pitbull? Are you working on any projects with him?

Elika Crespo: I originally thought of working with Pit, for years. I respect his movement. It all about his Cuban culture, Miami, and having fun.
I approached RIME Magazine together with Estevan Oriol and we set up a photoshoot in Miami. It was appropriate and perfect.. Two Cuban Miami breed Artist in a portrayal of scarface..meets Cuba in the 1940s. Since then..we have always kept in touch, always working together when we can. I did some small background vocals for one of his songs with Little John and we are in the midst of discussing some future projects for TV.
I was then called by his manager to be a part of the music video, and of course... I accepted. Its always a pleasure working with him. He is an amazing person, loyal to his people. IM like a sponge when IM around him, always absorbing every bit of information I can..ive learned so much from him. He has great business sense, so much insight and talent.....IM proud of what he has accomplished and what he will continue to achieve...He is not a pompous man, nor is he flashy. He treats everyone equal and is always courteous ....AND HIS BEATS ARE INSANE!

LaUnion1910: You are originally from Miami, and currently reside in Los Angeles. What do you think are the biggest differences in the LA and Miami markets?

Elika Crespo: WOW!!!! So many things.....Hahahah.
I was born there, so..... its different. People who don't really know Miami, think its all about South Beach..... There is so much more.....Its a melting pot of ALL Latino ethnicity's.....as well as Europeans and Central Americans. The food, the night life, the music, the beaches, the boating.......
I believe, the Miami market is open to a more "eclectic sound" and it invites the unknown with more ease and acceptance.
LA IS NO JOKE. I love to live here and i have finally accepted the fact that its my 2nd HOME. It taught me to be tough and present at all times....Every time IM in LA, I conform to a more business like mentality, in Miami, you cant help but slip and party more often......the weather in LA is amazing, The Latino culture in LA is so massive and different. Its amazed me, when I first moved here. I enjoy both cities, LA has been very good to me.

LaUnion1910: You are very beautiful and always seem to have the energy needed for this industry. What type of diet do you maintain? What would you recommend to all of us who are trying to get in shape?!

Elika Crespo: Thank you....Thats very nice to say. I don't know if my regimen will work for everyone....but I will definitely share.
I workout in a cardio-weight toning class 3 to 4 times a week. I run 2 times per week and IM a vegetarian.
Oh and I drink 2 to 3 liters of water per day. No drugs or smoking, but love to drink my red wine!
The rest is about surrounding yourself with positive people, praying, and reading up on a lot of fengshui .....lol

LaUnion1910: What are your thoughts on relationships? Are you currently in a relationship? How do you handle the nice and rude comments you often get?.

Elika Crespo: I don't really like to talk about my personal life, IM not seriously involved right now. In regard to comments people make it varies. I always enjoy the nice comments and take them to heart. Its uplifting. Rude comments are expected..there are plenty of haters out there and i guess i must be important in their lives if they feel the need to go out of their way and talk about me. My response to those type of people...is to find a hobby, do something that occupies your time, other than gossiping about others....Either way IM flattered. To those who show me love....i embrace it and never take it for granted.

LaUnion1910: We've seen you on various pieces for Joker Clothing, how did you begin to work with photographer/director Estevan Oriol and the Joker Brand team?

Elika Crespo: I met estevan at the Latino Film Festival about 5 years ago, through a mutual friend And one day he took photos of me, and since then he has been one of the few photographers to really capture me. Him and Mr.Cartoon played an important role in my career and IM thankful to have met them. I later went on to shoot some adds, videos and any type of promotional work they needed. They have great vision and talent. I wish them continual success.

LaUnion1910: What are your tips on fashion? What are some of your favorite brands?

Elika Crespo: I cant say I have a particular favorite brand..there are so many cool designers out there it overwhelming. Although for evening couture, I would have to say VALENTINO, is one of my favorites. I like to wear what's appropriate and what compliments my figure..sexy is OK as long as its not vulgar.....

LaUnion1910: We heard your song with LA hip hop artist, Chino XL. How did you hook up with Chino XL? What are your plans on the music production end? Do you have any immediate plans to release an album or songs?

Elika Crespo: I met Chino on the set of a film we did together in la. Chino is one of the most gifted lyricist out there. He is a great friend and working with him was amazing....Its safe to say that God has blessed that man with a wicked tongue...i hope to continue to work with him in the near future. As far as my album, IM currently working with a producer/songwriter/musician named Tim Carter, he also produced the track I did with Chino. He knows my voice and has trained me for several years now. Its an advantage to work with a producer that can create a song around your vocal ability and limitations....ive learned so much from him. He is so talented...IM blessed to have met him. We are searching for those songs that represent that sound IM after. Afro Cuban meet mainstream Urban......

LaUnion1910: Do you have a manager or an assistant? What has your experience been working as an independent artist, model, actress?

Elika Crespo: A good manager is so hard to find. Its a marriage. When I come across that person in my life I will be so happy, because I need one desperately However, I don't want to force the issue...It will come when its time.

LaUnion1910: On a non-working day, what is a typical day for Elika Crespo?

Elika Crespo: I like to wake up early and enjoy a cup of coffee while i read my emails. Then I workout and start my day. I love to do outdoor activities such as hiking, ridding bike and spend time with friends...if I were in Miami id do the same with my family....i love my family and friends very much and enjoy spending as much time as I can.

LaUnion1910: Are you voting this year? If so, who are you voting for?

Elika Crespo: lol......My dad always taught me to avoid discussing politics and religion.
However, I will most definitely exercise my right to vote.

LaUnion1910: What projects are you currently working on for 2008?

Elika Crespo: I've Started 2008 with a bang! I've shot a commercial for Chrysler (National), FORD (Latino), Miller (National) and 2 print adds for Pizza Hut and Bose Sound System. On TV I did and episode on "Dexter" and "Everybody Hates Chris" I'm ready for what ever God puts in my path. I thank God everyday and IM blessed. What more can I ask for? I do what I love, IM healthy and so are my family and friends.

LaUnion1910: Where did you grow up? What are some of the early memories of music in your household? What type of music are you listening to now?

Elika Crespo: Celia Cruz,Stevie Wonder, El Gran Combo, Elvis Presley,The Platters, Enrique Chia, Pavarotti,Neil Diamond, Barry Manilow.. where some of the artist I listened to at home growing up.
I love all types music as long as its not heavy metal...no disrespect, I just cant seem to get into that.

LaUnion1910: In your opinion, what makes a man sexy?

Elika Crespo: Being secure, Clean, well mannered, well read, considerate and a good son!

LaUnion1910: Thank you for the interview. Anything you would like to add.

Elika Crespo: I wanted to thank you for your interest in my career and allowing me share several aspects of my life with you. Its a tough ladder to climb, and IM doing it one step at a time with my ethics and self respect. I can honestly say that i sleep very well at night because everything i have achieved till now has been with hard work and dignity. Not many people in my line of work can say that.