Aryeé The Gem: “Music Is My Purpose!”

Now let’s hop right into this latest single, “To It,” — Tell me about this track; how did it come to fruition?

It was another day in the Saint & Citizen Atlanta studio with Trakmatik. He told me that he had a new track for me, and as soon as I heard the beat I already felt the energy of how impactful this record would be. The ‘To It’ track isn’t a typical R&B track, so I knew I needed to say something meaningful and real. “To It” depicts real-life situations I felt people could relate to.

Conceptually, what does that title represent both to and for you?

Getting “To It” is a powerful statement. It feels definite and charged with a force that requires total commitment. For me, getting “To It” is staying focused and striving for greatness. When we commit to getting to something, that type of energy changes lives. Ultimately, the goal is to stay inspired and be present through it.

How does “To It” differ and/or compare to previous Aryeé The Gem entries?

“To It” reflects my continued elevation sonically and artistically. I started by making music on my own in GarageBand, and now I’m working with some of the greatest creatives I know. With “To It,” I’m bringing my style to R&B music and putting my stamp on the genre! We’ve set the bar much higher with this song, and there’s still space for me to grow and develop artistically.

When you sit down to pen your lyrics as a songwriter, where do you draw your inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from everything. Most of what I sing and speak about comes from experience. It hits different when I talk about things that I went through. I also love to use my imagination and create songs about life that may not be personal experiences. My goal is to talk about things that people don’t talk about, but in a witty and thoughtful way.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And how did it all begin for you?

My family played a major role in why I even sing. I grew up with two moms, one of whom is my cousin; I’ve never met my father. Even as a baby, the women who raised me noticed my natural affinity for music and nurtured it. They instilled in me a passion for art. I was a part of the choir and played violin and saxophone. I even took dance growing up. When I went on family trips to visit my birth mom, siblings, and the rest of my family, there was always music being played. Either everyone was singing, or they would ask me to sing. Those special spaces reaffirmed that music is my purpose.

Now you’re a native of where exactly? And growing up there, who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

I was born in Milwaukee, WI. Some dope creatives, such as Jacob Latimore and Lakeyah, came up out of my hometown. The main thing that creatively inspired me back home was this event called Jazz In The Park. I’d take the bus with my brother, our cousin, and my aunt and we would spend the day outside with great vibes. Soul music inspires me. I grew up listening to Teena Marie, Vivian Green, Tamia, Fantasia, Jill Scott and Kem. My family has impeccable music taste, and I’m grateful.

Having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and/or style?

I’d say I occupy the Alternative R&B space. You can hear the foundations of Soul music and Hip Hop elements in my music, but in a fresh way.

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?

I want people to experience the power of authenticity and feel empowered to move in the same way. I’m doing what I love every day and going as hard as possible, which is a blessing. If there’s something you want, get to it! Make it happen!

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

One of the artists / producers I’d like to collaborate with is The-Dream. When I think about the transition of R&B music from the ’90’s to the 2000’s, he’s a HUGE part of that. I love his writing and his vocal production. I know the music that we’d create would be insane!

If you could play at any venue worldwide, which one would you choose and why?

Honestly, would love to play at The Dalhalla Amphitheater in Sweden. It’d be dope to have a show next to a waterfall! It’ll add to the ambiance.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?

I think R&B is in a transitional space. I would appreciate hearing more people talk about love in their songs. I’m kind of over the toxicity perspective! I want to create music rooted in dope-ass concepts that are mentally stimulating, amplify love, and connect with people emotionally. Music should make you feel something.

What do you feel has been and will continue to be the key to your longevity?

My work ethic is unmatched. I know creating music is what I’m supposed to do with my life, and I’m committed to bringing my creative goals to life. I intend to do my best and positively impact the world with my gifts. I’m passionate about making that a reality.

Do you have other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?

Absolutely! I’m a creative entrepreneur and see myself in the modeling and acting space. I also love to curate creative spaces and see myself also as a community organizer. Brunch is my favorite, so I sometimes think about opening a brunch spot.

What has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

Getting the opportunity to work in the studio with Dram was so dope! It’s crazy because I carry this journal with me that holds all the goals I’d like to reach in this lifetime, and he was in it. It’s cool to see the dreams I wrote in my journal come true.

What’s an average day like for you?

I like to start my day in a grounded way. I have my daily routine: hydrate, stretch, workout, self-care, meditate. If I’m not in the studio, dancing, at a jam session, or holding intentional space with friends. I’m also intentional about resting.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I’m still learning to receive love this way, but I’m grateful even to be supported. I know there’s a reason for everyone I meet, so I open myself to be present in each moment and let the interactions unfold authentically.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And why?

I love making music the most. I find it rewarding to start from the concept of nothing and overcome the challenge of creating a unique idea. Once we know what the vibes are, it’s literally like playing your favorite video game all the time. My least favorite part of this work is how sometimes it interrupts my sleep. As a professional rest-er, it’s hard to sacrifice hours for the craft but ultimately worth it.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Do it because you love it, and it brings you joy! Don’t give up even if it’s hard to do what you love. Stay committed, consistent and rooted, knowing you are manifesting your dreams.

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you all see yourself?

I see myself in an evolved space on every level. I am continuing to build my catalog and create classics, but ultimately happy.

As for the immediate, what’s next for you, Aryeé?

We’re finishing up a project we plan to release sometime this summer. So, it’s go time for me; I’m going to be as creatively expansive as possible to bring forth iconic things. Big tingz otw!

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?

Random thought, my favorite color is green, and I love flowers.

Any “parting” words for our readers?

Ultimately, thank y’all for seeing me. I’m so grateful to be able to do what I love and be received. I want to shout out my entire family, my incredible team at Saint & Citizen, Jackie O, and (The) HYPE Magazine for featuring me! Follow me everywhere @Aryeethegem.

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Tags: Aryeé The Gem, DRAM, Fantasia, GarageBand, Jackie O, Jacob Latimore, Jazz In The Park, Jill Scott, Kem, Lakeyah, Saint & Citizen, Tamia, Teena Marie, The Dalhalla Amphitheater, The-Dream, Trakmatik, Vivian Green