Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Adrielle Bow Belle
THE RELEASE
Adrielle Bow Belle, the award-winning singer/songwriter from Spanish Harlem, New York City, is a force to be reckoned with. Known as the self-proclaimed "Pop Punk Princess," she has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and compelling songwriting. Her talent has been recognized through numerous accolades, including winning the 2021 International Songwriting Award for Vocal Performance with her hit track "Breaker Blues." Adrielle's music is a testament to her resilience, as she overcame a tumultuous past marked by childhood physical abuse and a journey through the foster care system. Finding solace and strength in music, she emerged as a beacon of hope for all survivors, crafting emotional, anthemic, and inspirational tunes that serve as "fight songs" for those who have endured similar hardships. Her debut single, "Runaway," earned her an International Songwriting Award, while her album release, "The Nightlight Visual E.P.," garnered critical acclaim and received recognition from prestigious publications like FosterNation Magazine and IMR. With each new release, Adrielle continues to captivate listeners with her heartfelt lyrics and captivating storytelling.
Recorded at LoungeStudios NYC and produced by the talented St. James, Adrielle Bow Belle's latest release is a testament to her artistry. The masterful craftsmanship behind the scenes is evident, with Tim Boyce's mastering and Hefe's mixing bringing the music to life. Adrielle's newest release takes listeners on a powerful journey, blending her avid storytelling with heartfelt lyrics. It's a collection of tracks that resonate with listeners, touching on themes of personal growth, resilience, and finding one's own light in the darkest of times. Adrielle's music serves as a gift to her audience, wrapped in a "bow" and adorned with spikes and chains, representing the struggles faced by troubled youth. With her signature blend of pop punk, Adrielle Bow Belle continues to inspire and empower listeners with her poignant and relatable music.
THE INTERVIEW
What song or moment in time sparked your passion for music?
I've always loved music from the time I was a little girl, and nothing made me happier than singing along to the songs on the radio and watching live musical performances from artists in all genres of music ranging from classical opera to pop/r&b and rock and roll. I often felt like I didn't have a voice growing up, and Music was the one outlet I could count on to make feel seen and like I could express what I was feeling.
If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?
My biggest inspirations are Janet Jackson, Tracy Chapman, Mariah Carey, and Pink.
How does your creative process work from the moment you develop the idea to the completion of the record?
I always start writing a new song from a scenario and a melody in my head, and then the lyrics come. The biggest task is adding production to the song that compliments what I've already composed in my head. I am a storyteller, and all of my songs have a beginning, middle, and end in that story-form fashion. I like for every piece to have a message and a purpose for the world, and my goal is for my listeners to be left feeling emotionally connected to the story after they hear it. There are usually a million rewrites and draft recordings before I even hit the studio. Although Runaway was a first-draft song, every other song I've written is a work of many takes.
As for this release, who is the producer and what about the production moved you?
Breaking News was produced by ST.James and what can I say...I'm a sucker for a killer piano solo, as a pianist myself. The words flowed so easily into the track and it made the song feel like seasoning for the music, just like how the seasoning makes all the difference in good soul food. That's also why I chose to title the short EP with the a cappella version of the track as such.
When it comes to the songwriting on this record, what is the message you want to get across to your listeners?
I want my listeners to get a glimpse into what the black experience looks like in America, and how systemic racism and oppression play a part in all of our daily lives through the media, political agendas, and government policies.
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