Bel Better Than Me Interview

Better Than Me

Melbourne based artist BEL has released her new single "Better Than Me". The track showcases an artist pushing through the chaos and confusion of the world; an artist who transcends genre limitations and exists at a crossroads of art, music, design and fashion. The track's sleek production has a unique otherworldly charm to it. "Better Than Me" doesn't exist just to be listened to; it is meant to be consumed through all the senses.

Interview with Bel

Since releasing her debut EP MELANCHOLIA in 2017, and closing off the year with a performance at Falls Festival and supporting E^ST on a national tour, young and daring Melbourne based artist BEL has striven to remove stigmas and present her work from an unfiltered perspective, with authentic self-representation. BEL is also a creative force who expresses herself through multiple art forms, which included an interview and photo-shoot with I-D Mag, and an exclusive Prada SS17 collection fresh from the runway, which was presented by Cake Mag, featuring BEL's impressive styling. With all this and more already under her belt, BEL is certainly primed for an exciting and busy year.

Question: How would you describe your music?

Bel: I find genre conventions, labelling of music in general quite restricting. I feel like the best way to describe my music is by listening to it. For me, so many different influences (musical, visual, emotional, spiritual) make up the sounds and melodies that exist within my song writing and production. If I had to describe it based on how society defines music, I'd say experimental pop?


Question: Can you tell us about Better Than Me?

Bel: Better Than Me follows the narrative of a girl who is going through various metamorphoses; from passive to assertive, teenager to adult, quiet to loud. It's a very important track to me, and I hope that the lyrics provide solace to those who are wanting to scream out the same message to whomever or whatever made them feel like they are second best.


Question: What motivates you most when writing music?

Bel: Motivation isn't really an emotion I feel when writing music. I really enjoy writing, so I don't find that I require additional motivation. It's kind of just happens. That being said, if I ever get into a funk with a song I'm working on and struggle to complete it (usually because of perfectionistic tendencies), I have to go inward and think about what I am trying to say. So I suppose I feel motivated to convey a message and that drives me forward in the writing process.


Question: Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Bel: They are so different it's very hard to compare. In fact, I consider them to be polar opposites. I kind of feel like a boss ass bitch in both settings. Performing allows me to be disinhibited and free, whilst recording/production requires extreme precision and focus. Both of these serve and compliment parts of my personality, so I really enjoy both.


Question: Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

Bel: I am very excited to play the new material, but thus far, it has to be melancholia! The second half of the song goes wild in a live environment and I end up dancing and throwing myself around like a wild beast. It's a workout and I love it!


Question: If you could have anyone, in the world, attend a show, who would it be?

Bel: I love this question. I'd be honoured to have a legendary artist such as Carol King, Thom Yorke, Grace Jones or Elton John come to my show. I think I would melt in any of their iconic presences.


Question: Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

Bel: Sevdaliza all day every day! I am also loving Grimes's new album, Sudan Archives (I just saw her play at The Soho House in LA), Rosalia's older stuff and Leonard Cohen for my soul.


Question: What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Bel: Again, another great question!! To be honest, any female that survives in this industry is an inspiration of mine. Artists such as FKA Twigs and Billie Eilish are very inspiring in their assertion. However female label executives, producers, writers, publicists etc. hold just as much respect with me.

Question: If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

Bel: Such a tough one! I'd be over the moon with so many artists, but I'd love to collaborate with James Blake, Khalid, Sampha, FKA Twigs, Arca, Thom Yorke, Sigur Ros! So many more!


Question: What's a typical day like?

Bel: There's no such thing. However every single day must have a good breakfast and lemon water as well as some form of physical activity, even if it's just a stretch.


Question: What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?

Bel: Doing what makes me feel powerful and happy – simple.


Question: Can you share your socials?

Bel: @eyesofbel
www.facebook.com/belmusic1

Interview by Brooke Hunter