To coincide with the release of her well-timed musical ode to the importance of voting – regardless of your political views – songwriter and artist Belle Aire kindly stopped by for an interview.
We talk about the inspiration for It’s Time To Vote, as well as the collaboration process, stylistic influences, her hopes for the future, and plenty more. Here’s the conversation in full.
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Hi Belle Aire – thanks so much for the interview, and congrats for the growing success of the new single! For those new to your music, how would you describe the style of this release?
The style of this release is High energy vocals mixed with vibrant beats that transcends barriers. This song is unique in that it takes a genre that is not well known in the political sector and deals with difficult issues through the universal language of music.
I think that the evolution of this genre is being driven by the evolution of the consciousness of the genre’s artist.
“I believe, as artists continue social consciousness, the genre will continue to expand. And let’s face it, consciousness is high vibration.”
The concept refreshingly takes an unbiased view of the voting process, not choosing sides but instead reinforcing the importance of having your say and voting no matter whom you support. What inspired you to take this stance?
The message of my song It’s Time to Vote was inspired by my father, a passionate advocate for living your dreams, giving back, and fostering community unity; he taught me that coming together as a people is essential for making a difference in the world.
His belief that change starts with each individual motivates me to encourage others to get out there and vote, to ensure their voices are heard, to speak their truth, and to stand up for what they believe in.
The song is huge in terms of energy and production, great vocals meander from RnB to power-pop to hip hop. How did the track come about creatively – who produced it, and what was the recording process like?
Artists who have really shaped my musical soul are Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and Adele. Whitney could tell a story with a simple note; Celine Dion’s ability to deliver a heart-wrenching ballad is unparalleled. And Adele, is just raw honesty. Each one of them have contributed to inspiring my artistry and creative journey.
Chico Bennett is the producer on this project. Chico has worked with icons like Lady Gaga, Usher, and Madonna. He has an incredible talent for bringing ideas to life…and it was no different with him working on this project. Chico’s unwavering confidence and keen sense of direction quickly dispelled any early concerns on my end. His vision was clear. This was to be an anthem with a powerful message that will resonate with everyone who hears it.
How did you come to connect with Chico Bennett, and what does this collaboration bring out in your artistic vision?
I’ve known Chico for years and his reputation preceded him. I would describe my music as a powerful blend of high energy vocals and vibrant beats that transcends barriers, embodying the spirit of freedom and creativity. Chico clearly brought that out on this project.
How important is it for communities to feel empowered and as if they are an important part of society, regardless of which way they lean politically?
Inclusivity and unity were the objectives. We are engaging upon one of the most politically divisive elections in our nation’s history. Because it’s so politically divided the song’s message of inclusivity and unity is a reminder that we are still one we may think differently hold different beliefs but we are one united we stand.
What’s your biggest hope for the future in terms of your music and how you’re viewed as an artist?
Regarding the current single It’s Time to Vote my hope listeners here the message of Inclusivity and unity. Those were the objectives of this song. We are engaging upon one of the most politically divisive elections in our nation’s history. Because it’s so politically divided the songs message of inclusivity and unity is a reminder that we are still one we may think differently hold different beliefs but we are one united we stand
What’s the mood like in San Diego right now, and how important is music and art when delivering relief and escapism from the stresses of modern life and politics?
I’m currently living in Los Angles but I still have family in San Diego. From what I get from my family San Diego like the rest of the country is very divided.
Because its so politically divided my song’s message of inclusivity and unity is a reminder that we are still one. We may think differently, hold different beliefs, but we are one. It’s a reminder of what we say we are about in this country. United we stand!
Is there anything else we should know?
There’s so much. In addition to my EP called B.E.L.L.E, My Podcast, and I am working on booking headline spots in festivals like Tomorrowland. My vision for these projects extends far beyond just personal accolades. I really have a commitment to empower and uplift others. That will keep me busy for a really long.
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Find Belle Aire on Soundcloud & her Website.