About
Elisa Watanabe is an A&R executive and the founder of Sayaka LLC, a boutique consultancy dedicated to artist development, cross-cultural collaboration and helping companies take creative experiences to the next level through intentionally curated songwriting camps and roster expansion. With deep roots in both Western and Eastern music markets, Elisa brings a creator-first approach and a unique global perspective to every project she is a part of.
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Before starting Sayaka LLC, Elisa was the Senior Director of A&R for Ultra Publishing & Helix Records, spending over 6 years with the publishing company. Previous to Helix Records, she A&R'd for Ultra Records, which has been home to artists such as Sofi Tukker, Kygo, Steve Aoki, Black Coffee, etc. During her time with Ultra Publishing and Helix Records, she helped reach Billboard #1 Dance Records, curated international writing camps, oversaw relations across Asia and liaised between the sync and A&R teams. She has helped contribute to songs that have landed on notable placements such as HBO, A24 and Disney.
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In 2025, Elisa officially launched Sayaka LLC and relocated to Tokyo, where she’s now focused on building global pathways for artists, writers, and producers. Her mission is to help creatives break new ground through meaningful collaboration, intentional strategy, a respect for culture and the commitment to always return to the love of music.
Services
Cross-Culture Collaboration
Bringing artists together across borders and creating opportunities for producers, writers, and artists from different cultures to collaborate. Whether the goal is to explore a new market, blend musical styles, or reach a specific audience, support is provided through tailored writing sessions, insights into local markets, and hands-on guidance from concept to execution.
Roster Expansion
Finding and developing the right artists to match each creative vision. Partnering with labels, publishers, sync and management companies to identify emerging talent aligned with their company identity. The process includes scouting, early-stage evaluations, and creative consultations. The focus is on connecting with artists who are ready to take the next step, whether that means signing, development, or collaboration.
Songwriting Camps
Supporting labels, publishers, brands, and management teams in organizing and executing songwriting camps from start to finish. This includes curating the right combo of writers and producers, coordinating session logistics, booking locations, and overseeing the creative flow. Whether the goal is to create a destination unique experience, develop a concept album, or create music for sync, every detail is handled with care, so clients can stay focused on creating the best music.
Creative Development
Helping creators discover and shape who they are. This creative development work offers support for writers, producers and artists in defining their sound, refining their message, and building a strong artistic identity. Guidance is provided across music direction, session collaborations and catering towards the specific creator's vision. The goal is to equip artists with the tools and confidence to grow creatively and most importantly, authentically.
