Each week, we get to hear more incredible new releases from our students. It’s really helped us get through the past year; even with everything going on, they’re still creating incredible new music!
This week, our Track of the Week is the debut release “New Faces” from BIMM Berlin’s Hannah Kelly.
Take a listen and discover more about the track below.
What was your inspiration when you began writing the track?
After school, when I went travelling and then moved to Berlin, I realised that some things don’t change, no matter where you are. Sometimes, things must come from within.
Are there any artists that inspire you when writing?
I like artists that write their own songs and have good lyrics and interesting ideas. At the moment, I am really enjoying female singers and songwriters like Lianne La Havas, Clairo, Mathilda Homer, H.E.R., Sigrid or even (very surprisingly) Taylor Swift, with her newest album Evermore. Billie Eilish is also a big inspiration because she writes and records all her songs at home with her brother without a huge team or recording studio.
What is key to your sound and how do you make your music stand out?
When it comes to “New Faces”, I want the song to feel like a hug for the listener. My sound is definitely in the realm of pop, while also being both very intimate in some parts and at the same time kind of cinematic in others.
How does your songwriting process work?
On my phone, I have a notes section called ‘Phrase Bank’ where I write in lyric ideas whenever they hit me. That is why I usually start with the lyrics and then figure out the chords and melody on either the piano or the guitar. I also love top-line writing, which I have done much less though.
Describe your sound in 3 words…
Intimate, atmospheric, dynamic.
How has studying at BIMM helped you develop as an artist?
I have learnt two main things at BIMM. First, I learnt how to become the best singer I can be and collaborate with other musicians to create something new and special. Second, I gained a better understanding of the music industry from a business perspective. One of the most valuable things BIMM offers is the connections with like-minded people. My peers push me to be a better musician every day, and the knowledge and support I have gained from some of the lecturers are priceless.
What’s next for you?
I am already working on my next project, which is another single called “Ocean Brain”. The difficulty at the moment is the lockdown, which makes it hard to film the music video I had planned. At the same time, I am also working on my first EP, which will come out later in 2021.
