Irish pop star Aimée just released her new single ‘Hurt Like Hell’, a powerful break-up song released via Universal Music.
We chat to Aimée about the year so far, how she got into the music industry, and what’s next…
How is 2023 going for you so far?
So far? Amazingly! I’ve already spent time in Stockholm & LA, in writing sessions and label meetings. I released my single ‘Hurt Like Hell’, and the response has been incredible. I’ve also confirmed some really exciting shows – it’s been such a positive start to the year. I feel very lucky.
When did you know you wanted to get into the music industry?
Very, very early in life. As far back as I can remember, I was singing, dancing, writing music. So being a creative is just in my DNA. Deciding to move from just singing in my bedroom to actually having the courage to pursue a recording career took some time however. But really from my teenage years onwards, I was chasing this goal. And I feel so grateful to be a working artist.
Can you tell us about your new release ‘Hurt Like Hell’? What is it about?
In short – it’s a break-up song. But what I love about this song is that it’s not all anger and vengeance. That’s in there and that’s the hook, but it’s balanced with the story of the person in question genuinely reflecting back on the relationship. The line ‘you call me late at night to say you see the light, but I just see the cracks’ kills me: it encapsulates so much. And the song also examines how the narrative of their break-up will play out. I think all of that makes it a much richer song than if we had simply stuck to the ‘woman scorned’ vibe!
What do you want your listeners to take away from your music?
I think if you’re releasing music as an artist, you’re seeking connection. You want another human to be moved by your music, connect with that music and become a part of your tribe. So to do that, I have to be genuine. I have to write about real life, real emotions, challenges, joy. If listeners take away anything from my music, I hope it’s that: authenticity. They’re getting the real me in every song.
Do you have any more planned releases for this year?
Yes! I can’t say too much right now, but we have an absolute BOP in the can. I got to work with an incredible writer through my amazing publisher Sarah at BDi Music – and we clicked massively. We’ve written a few songs: and this next one is FIRE!
You first came to the spotlight through YouTube. What would you say to hopeful singers wanting to enter the music industry?
I know this sounds so obvious in terms of advice, but – do not give up. Those who have longevity in any creative industry have to have two things: real talent, and a willingness to persevere. It is the long game in this type of industry. There’s no blueprint to follow that will guarantee you get all that you want. So you have to be willing to learn and be curious, to work extremely hard and to keep the faith.
What’s next for you?
More music! More travelling & more exciting projects. I signed a global publishing deal late last year, and we are really focused on me also writing for other artists and projects which excites me so much. I have some summer festivals to prepare for, which is always so much fun.
There’s so much of an artist’s life that is planned, and the diary is the bible for me and my team. But I’ve learned that the real magic of the music industry lies in these spontaneous, unforeseen moments. There’s always surprises, and new things to learn and try – and I genuinely can’t wait to see what the next year brings.
