Ari B is an award-winning teenage performer, with a rapidly growing fan base for her original music and captivating dance-powered music videos. She has been described as a “firecracker” on the stage, performing her blend of Pop, R&B, and Hip Hop, with a commanding, riveting narrative. She brings a vocal style that may remind you of Toni Braxton or Hayley Williams, and is combined with dance moves reminiscent of Janet Jackson or Paula Abdul. In addition to being a performer, Ari B is a hands-on creative force behind the entire production of her songs. She takes her visions and concepts from the writing phase, to the recording studio, and then finally to life on stage.
In this interview spotlight, we chat with Ari B about her latest project, influences, music consumption preferences, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and streams below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
There are many reasons I’ve chosen this style. R&B came to me. Even if it wasn’t on the platform that it is, it’s irresistible. Generally, I like to create good vibes and create big energy with other people. The form of Pop allows you to do that, and it also allows you to play around with the imaginary aspect of life, creating new spaces as a re-sult. This is a very important aspect in my writing style, because when you accurately reflect fantasy, deeper perspectives take place, and it makes a person wonder.
What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?
I have a lot on my mind and a lot that I want to share… As an artist, my job is to re-flect life in some way. Every creator has individual paths, but I’m confident in my vision and believe that it will resonate with people. To me, music’s not something I do. It’s a way of life, so I’m forced to do it.
Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?
They’ve changed for sure. But I’m mostly interested in talking about the music I’m passionate about now, because now I know more. MJ has and will always be my number one, haha.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
For sure. I certainly had my own visual ideas for the song after I wrote it, and needed an-other visual out there at that point. What’s great about videos/performances, is that you get to produce/show your perspective and really bring it to life. With videos specifically, you get to replay these things over and over incase questions were left unanswered, or just for the joy of experiencing it over and over again.
What was the last song you listened to?
I was listening to India Arie’s playlist, haha. Such a soulfoul voice and dope lyrics. Everything she does.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I’m more about MP3s. It’s easiest to access.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I’ll do anything. I’m pretty flexible. As long as the quality of sound is good.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?
I’d say knowing what the best way is to get my music out there. I’ve been approached by people that say they want to promote my music, ask me to agreements, but honestly not sure what makes the most sense. I might need a law agree to figure out the landscape. Overall, I try to be an outlet so that it’s easy to find my music and connect with fans.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?
Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?
I love music and people. Always hoping to create fun spaces with people through music. Ha. Thanks for interviewing me. This was fresh.
