The music world is ever-evolving. With trends changing each day, it is inevitable that the future of music will be found in elements of the past. Influenced by the synth sounds of the 80’s, as well as the futuristic sound of techno, ARADIA is able to take retro inspiration to bring a fresh new sound to indie-pop!
In addition to her unique blend of catchy beats and innovative soundscapes, ARADIA has been captivating audiences worldwide. In this interview, Music Addict delves into her creative process, inspirations, and the journey that has shaped ARADIA’s musical career.
What inspired you to pursue indie pop music?
I started out playing classically growing up. Then, I fell in love with the synthesizer when I was a pretty young kid. Through hearing groups like Kraftwerk growing up, I was blown away. My love for composition and that style of instrument drove me down this path. It’s not a choice, right? I can’t not make music! There’s always music going in my head, so it’s to preserve my sanity to record it.
How would you describe your musical style in a few words?
I would describe it as soulful, synth-driven indietronica.
Can you share a bit about your creative process? How do you get in “the zone”?
I would call my songs more “downloads” than “written songs”. I wake up at four in the morning because there’s music playing in my head, so I have to quickly make a voice note. To get in the zone when I must start creating, the best thing I do for myself is go for a walk. Going for a walk, especially in Manhattan, brings a certain energy that begins the process.
I also try to make time to relax. If I am intentionally trying to get in the zone, going to the beach, or going for a walk around Manhattan are the things that take me to that creative place.
How do you balance personal storytelling with creating music that resonates with a wider audience?
I don’t put myself in the storytelling category of song, but rather I talk more about themes and broader contexts. What I think is differently about me as a songwriter and producer now is that I do not pay attention to what I think others will like. That is what I think I used to do. I used to try to make music that I though would resonate with others, but I didn’t actually gain fans or listeners until I stopped trying. I focus most on the quality of the production.
What’s your favorite part about performing live?
Ironically, I used to have terrible stage fright. Because I am all about working on personal development and spiritual growth, I think that work magically rid me of my stage fright. So now, I really enjoy performing live!
The thing that is the point of live performance for me is the connection. When I see someone look up from their phone when I perform, whether it be eye contact, a smile or they start dancing, that is everything to me. It is all about connection. I make the music to inspire people, so when I see it inspiring others, I get overwhelmed and super happy!
Have you had any memorable collaborations? How did they impact your music?
Yes, definitely with live shows! I recently participated in the Springboard festival in Houston. It was an amazing experience to share the stage with other Springboard artists. We helped each other get ready for the show, and all those artists are top-notch. That was a very memorable experience.
As for the production side, I got the opportunity to work with a really great producer and engineer named Douglas Romanow. He is up in Toronto and in Nashville. I was introduced to him by a former manager of mine. Doug and I collaborated on finishing the mixes for a ton of my songs. I recorded my vocals live, and that was an incredible experience! He did a lot of coaching and helped me understand the difference between a good performance, as well as a believable emotional performance.
What challenges have you faced as an independent artist, and how have you overcome them?
Being a woman in the industry has been one of the biggest challenges. The expectation was that I was the singer. I could not find any women to work with. So, there was a challenge in interviewing both producers and engineers.
Every single one of them would want to redo the song. I wouldn’t want them to change my sound. I just wanted finishing touches and experience in the studio to record my voice and instruments. That was just not okay with most people I worked with. So, I had to teach myself everything.
What themes do you explore in your music, and what do you hope listeners take away from it?
I am pretty consistent when it comes to themes. I. I try to focus on how even though the world can be a tough place to be, it’s also amazing. We have each other, so I want to spread a “You can do it!” message.
I want people to feel alive. I want people to feel worthy. I want people to feel inspired to go out and grab the world by the…whatever!
How do you see the indie pop genre evolving in the future?
I see a lot of genre bending and fusing these days, which I think is really exciting. I love sci-fi and sci-fi movies and seeing what the music sounds like in future nightclub or bar. I love to see what the interpretation is of what the music will sound like. I think that we will see the pendulum swing backwards toward live instrument and organic sound.
But, I also believe there will always be the presence of computer music. I think that it will continue to be a playground for genres, where indie pop will pull in influence and sounds from other broad genres. I also think sounds from around the world will show up more.
What are your aspirations for your music career, and what can fans expect next?
There are more live shows in the works! I am currently releasing a single every three weeks, which will take me into 2025. Also, I just found out I got accepted to the D.C. Pride Festival!
As for aspirations, I would love to mentor young women in music production and engineering. I would love to be a wayfinder for those trying to figure it out, as well as releasing music and touring. I’d also love an experience in composition. I have a dream one day of scoring a movie or a television show. That is a huge focus for me, as I pitch a lot for film and television, and I would love to see some of those songs get into a T.V. show or movie!
THE FUTURE OF ARADIA
Overall, it’s evident that ARADIA’s commitment to her craft resonates deeply within her unique musical style. With each song, ARADIA invites listeners into a world where 80’s synth and futuristic beats thrive in a modern world.
As she continues to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in ARADIA’s musical journey, confident that her passion and talent will continue to inspire audiences around the globe.
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