Melody Bien Aime’s music is a testament to her painful, but hopeful journey to embrace her inner champion. Through haunting rhythms and searing lyrics, Melody goes where few of us are brave enough to venture. She delves deftly into a life infused with potentially debilitating struggles with mental illness, obesity, heartbreak, relationships, racism, and attempted suicide. Her language is raw, unflinching, evocative, never self-pitying. Her songs are anthems of triumphs over demons, whether they attack from within our bodies, or from outside.
Lisa: Hi Ariane! What first got you into music? What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?
Melody Bien Aime: My musical pursuits first started with poetry! I have been writing poetry since I was in middle school. I loved being able to express myself through writing. Years later my producer/cousin, Simonne Jones (musician, producer, writer, the list goes on!) suggested I try setting my poems to music and speeding up how I spoke. After that took hold, she suggested I sing, and turn my poems to songs, I was addicted! I became consumed with writing, executing and recording. And here we are today, where if it weren’t for music I would be either in a classroom preschool teaching which was another passion of mine. So needless to say, I am extremely grateful for Simonne and for music!
Lisa: How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Melody Bien Aime: My music is a mashup of styles I don’t think I fit into one category, and that’s okay because I don’t think I fit into one category as a musician and person. My music is a reflection of me
Lisa: What is your creative process like?
Melody Bien Aime: Sometimes lyrics just flow to me and I have to get them written down quickly. Though usually I love to have a beat or some notes in mind before I write. I get to it, and don’t stop until I’m satisfied or hit a wall.
Lisa: I really loved your new single “I Am Rising”. Can you tell me more about it? What’s it about, and how did you get inspiration to write it?
Melody Bien Aime: I wrote I Am Rising 9 days after George Flyd was murdered, he died on my birthday. Writing this piece seemed necessary, and needed to be impactful. I was heavily influenced by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Gil-Scott Heron, and Alicia Keys.
Lisa: If you could choose to work with some of today’s established artists or producers, to move your game to the top, with whom would you like to collaborate?
Melody Bien Aime: I have to say, I have been blessed to work with one of the best producers, Simonne. She not only produced I Am Rising, she also coached and taught me through making music. I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience and opportunity to work with her, and make art along the way. Aside from her, Brent Fyiaz, The Weeknd, and Summer Walker. The list goes on of my favorite artist, but I will leave the rest as a surprise.
Lisa: What is one message you would give to your fans?
Melody Bien Aime: I would let them know that just as they’re supporting me, I’m supporting them too. Everything I’m trying to do and accomplish is ultimately to be able to give back. Yes I have to be able to make a living for myself, and be able to do more than get by.. But I make music, spread awareness of mental health, and social justice to let people know they are not alone, they are being seen and heard.
Lisa: Which famous musicians do you admire?
Melody Bien Aime: I admire Beyonce! She has been able to do what she loves, collaborate with others, and give back. That is incredible to me. I believe that she is an amazing entertainer as well, I’ve seen endless videos of her and also had the experience of seeing her live, thanks to my sister! Beyonce is truly an inspiration.
Lisa: You are speaking out for women and men of your generation, also help bring awareness of importance of mental health acceptance. Can you tell me a bit more about that? And what are some things that needs change for todays generation in your opinion?
Melody Bien Aime: I speak up for mental health awareness because I live with a mental illness. Prior to my diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder, I struggled with depression. I didn’t take it seriously enough. I was diagnosed with BPD in the Fall of 2016, after that I became consumed with the best ways to be well. It shouldn’t be taboo to speak about your feelings, and what you’re going through. I have so much faith in my generation to be the change with stigma around mental health. I know that I try my best to be non-judgemental, understanding and accepting. These aren’t the only strategies needed to kick the stigma or help someone with mental health, but it is a start. Show compassion to others, because we don’t know what they’re going through.
Lisa: What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Melody Bien Aime: In I Am Rising, I accredit my mother for encouraging me to use my voice to speak out for injustices, because she always told me “I can do anything I put my mind to” and I mention in my song, I will use my voice to speak up for you.
Lisa: What are you working on right now?
Melody Bien Aime: Right now I am working on creating new music, many things to look forward to coming on my website, and maintaining my well-being. I am so excited for all that is to come, I can’t wait to share more with all of you.
Lisa: What’s next for you, can we expect Album or EP soon?
Melody Bien Aime: You can’t get the cookie without opening the package! Keep up with me to find out what’s next to come!
Thank you!
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