Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your musical journey and background?
My name is Arye and I am originally from Alabama but have been living in New York for a little over 10 years now. I come from a family of singers but I initially began rapping until I took singing seriously at nearly 13 years old. Between my 1st 2 solo shows around 2012 to headlining my own concert in 2019, my original music has been released and performed. I’ve written songs for local artists around NY and have been featured on other projects as well.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound and style?
Lauryn Hill by keeping my lyrics real, down to earth and conscious. Jill Scott for her live soulful and poetic sound. Whitney Houston with her power, clarity and riffs. Christina Aguilara and Tamia with their power and range. Mos Def (Yasin Bey) with conscious smooth flow and lyrical delivery. Bruno Mars with his infectious energetic performances and true showmanship.
Can you share a specific artist or album that has had a significant impact on your music?
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
a. What’s your creative process like when you’re composing or writing a new song?
I get to a quiet or semi quiet place to finish a thought of a song. Usually the initial idea of a song comes to mind when things around me are going on. However, to finish the song through, sometimes I have to seclude myself.
Among all the songs you’ve created, do you have a personal favorite? If so, what makes it special to you?
I love so many songs on this upcoming project. Chocolate Sorbet because it’s so fun and retro. It’s a step back into a time I wish I was in with music. As this interview is going on, it’s not out yet but will be my 2nd single from the new EP.
Can you share the story or inspiration behind that particular song?
I was listening to a sample on Spotify and immediately thought of the days of Junior Mafia, Lil Kim, Montel Jordan and combined a really good time while speaking on attraction.
Let’s talk about your latest song. What’s the title, and what’s the story or message behind it?
Can I Be Born Again. It was a time where I was feeling so ashamed and regretful of decisions I made in life and I felt like I had to get these feelings out. I didn’t know what to feel about myself because I felt like a failure and that I wasted parts of myself by not being smart. From financial losses to my love life. After the song was finished and came out, I started changing my mentality for the better.
Share a memorable or unique experience from one of your live performances.
My Testing the Waters Live was so memorable because of everything it had going on. I produced the show near Times Square in an off Broadway theatre and it was a 9 piece band with openers. Immensely proud of myself for being able to pull that off and looking forward to topping myself on the next one!
Beyond music, do you have any hobbies or interests that you’re passionate about? How do they influence your music?
I’m passionate about animals, elderly care, homelessness and veterans. I have others but those are my top 4 in that order. They don’t necessarily influence my music but they do keep me grounded in humanity.
Is there a dream collaboration you’d like to pursue in the future?
Whoo! Loaded question! Don’t worry, I’m going to minimize this lol. H.E.R. Joe, Brian McKnight, Jill Scott, Jazmin Sullivan, Yasin Bey (Mos Def), Cleo Soul and so many others.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting their journey in the music industry?
Make sure you READ what you sign or get someone to look at it. OWN as much as you can. Stay grounded with values because if you don’t you can get lost. Last but certainly not least, more than half of the people you will meet in this industry are NOT your friend. So stay firm and really be about business and don’t open yourself to everyone. Have discernment.
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or new music you have in the works? What can your fans and listeners look forward to from you in the near future?
I am currently finishing up my new EP which will be out this year. It is touching jazz-hop sounds. Can I Be Born Again music video will be dropping next month. 2 more singles will be released within the next 2-3 months. Also in progress, my concert of the year! Excited about that because I am really working to level up from the Testing the Waters debut concert.