INTERVIEW: AREEJ

Introducing AREEJ , Hailing from West London, UK with a Moroccan and Sudanese background, her soft tones, sultry sounds take lead from a strong global music influence. Challenging classical Arabic music among that of a love of jazz, blues and soul to create her unique honest tone. Letting her true emotions and feelings be examined in her songs, as she welcomes her listens onto her journey of self and sound.

CREATIVE TEAM

Interview by BONNIE HOGAN

Photographer - KANE FOLASADE JOHN OLUWO

Stylist - BIANCA NICOLE

Makeup Artist - ROSIE McGINN

Location - TEA BUILDING / SOHO HOUSE

Hi Areej, how are you?

Hi Bonnie, I'm really good thank you, the weather is a bit gloomy today but apart from that I'm alive and well, excited for the future! Got to give thanks always!

What sparked your journey as an artist?

Escapism, the freedom to express myself, and the way music and art moved me. It acted as my therapy from a young age. It was never something that I had to put too much thought into, it was always a feeling that sparked my interest. I knew that I wanted to make people feel the same way that music made me feel.

Top, **AUJORD**, Trousers, **URBAN OUTFITTERS**, Shoes, **RIVER ISLAND**, Rings, **BILLIE GRAND**

What genres, cultures and/or artists would you say have influenced your sound the most?

A myriad of things for sure! Growing up in an African/Arab household I had the luxury of being immersed in different sounds. Arabic music was always playing in my house and thus subconsciously my rhythm, melodies and scales are all an influence of that as well as western music of course.However no matter what the culture, the similarities in all my influences is the soul. Nothing beats music from the soul, hence why I became obsessed with jazz/blues from a young age. Nothing felt more real and relatable to me than expression from the heart. I was able to fall in love with artists such as Nina Simone and Etta James for that very reason. Their music acted like a portal into their world, mind and soul; it was the closest you would get to them spirituality.

PHOTOS ABOVE: Top, AUJORD, Trousers, RECLAIMED VINTAGE, Shoes, CLARKS

I read that you have a debut EP Guided By Our Fears currently in the works. What can listeners expect from this project?

My truth, an insight into my experiences and most importantly a particular time in my life. The Ep was all recorded live with some amazing musicians, who all contributed to making the project what it is. My producer Jrocs and I really took time in making something authentic and honest. You can definitely expect timeless good music with an influence of my African heritage evident in the interlude.

What’s been the most rewarding aspect of your journey thus far?

Witnessing the struggle pay off. To know that I've stuck to who I am without compromising my art is very rewarding.I have no regrets and that's what I'm most proud of. As cliche as it sounds, the journey is the best part. Seeing people react to my art in a way that warms my soul reminds me why I'm doing what I do. Realising that my hard work and manifestations have all come to friction is an ineffable feeling. I had my first headline show in March and it was the most rewarding experience ever, seeing everything come to life was a dream.

Dream performance location?

Ooooh! There are so many. I've always loved Ronnie Scotts’s and the artists that grace the stage there; I'd also love to eventually play most venues including festivals. Performing a set on NPR tiny desk concert would also be a dream.

What’s up next for Areej? (new singles, music videos, shows, etc.)

All of it! I'm always writing and recording but of course not everything I create, I will release, it’s all part of the growing process.I like to take time with my art, but yes i will be releasing more music with a second project on the way soon and definitely more videos and shows!

FOLLOW AREEJ

INSTAGRAM | LATEST MUSIC