New Talent Interview: Bel
Australian singer-songwriter Bel released her debut single 'How Could I Unlove You' earlier this year. A low-key ballad with hints of 1990s Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, Bel's gorgeous vocals make us keen to hear what she can produce next. Women In Pop recently chatted with her to find out just that!
Hi Bel! Thanks for chatting with us. If we go right back to the beginning, what are your first memories of music as a child?
My mother would always play music cassette tapes while she was cleaning the house, even now I still know by heart her favourite music. I also loved dancing to music when I was young, up to pre-school age. Around school age, that changed to singing. I remember just singing while cleaning in the classroom and I also entered music contests at school.
Who were your favourite pop stars growing up?
Being born in the 1990s, I’ve always admired Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and of course the Spice Girls. That’s probably why I love ballads, pop, and those powerhouse songs.
How long have you been singing and performing for?
Only around one and a half years. I’m usually a shy girl but there’s something about singing and performing that makes me feel carefree and full of spirit.
When did you decide you wanted to make music your career?
Actually, it was just by chance. I decided to take singing lessons and the opportunity to make music just woke up a sleeping dream inside of me.
Your single ‘How Could I Unlove You’ is absolutely beautiful! What was the inspiration behind it?
Thank you! I went through quite a tough period two years ago and I was drafting lyrics about my heartbreak as a coping mechanicism. The song is about my feelings when my previous relationship fell through. When I had the opportunity to make a single last year, I brought the old handwritten draft lyrics during the recording session with the producer Jarrod Bain who just brought this song to life with his amazing talent and creativity.
What inspires you when you write your music?
Inspiration usually comes from the present moment, how I’m feeling, who or what is significant to me. At the moment, I’m inspired to make music about my journey in life.
Is there a particular message you like to convey in your music?
My music is quite personal. I want people to know that whatever they may be feeling - whether it’s being heartbroken, in love, happy or feeling hopeless - they’re not alone.
What female musicians do you look up to, or inspire you?
In this generation, I look up to Demi Lovato, Alicia Keys, and Jessie J. Besides their awesome talent they’re not afraid to sing about what they believe in and push limits in becoming a better musician and person.
So, what’s next for Bel?
I’m currently working on my 2nd single with Jarrod, entitled 'It Was You'. We’re hoping to release it soon!
You can download Bel now on iTunes and stream on Spotify
Bel will be performing at the Woollahra Hotel in Sydney on August 26 at 5:30pm.
To stay up-to-date with all things Bel, you can follow her on Facebook and Instagram
