Inspired #234 - Aiko
Aiko talks us through the inspirations of their latest track ‘Power’.
Who are your top three musical inspirations?
Definitely Aurora, I love her voice, production and just the way she feels music. When it comes to songwriting, when I started, I remember being quite influenced by the band The Neighbourhood - I love the honesty in the lyrics and combined with their darker feel production. And third, I admire FKA Twigs for her visuals and how cohesive everything in her branding is - starting from songs, to clothing, make-up, stage performance. Definitely a big inspiration!
Is there a certain film that inspires you?
Hmm, to be very honest, although I love a good movie, I don't think I have one that particularly inspired me. I loved Midsommar for it's cinematography or Mr. Nobody, as it was one of my first movies where I went Huh?? That's an interesting thought! after watching it. But at the same time, some of my guilty pleasures include The Office or Modern Family.
What city do you find the most inspiring?
London! I've been lucky enough to have moved here a year and a bit ago, what I love about it is the endless energy, there's always something happening, somewhere to go and you can meet really interesting people here! I've always been the person to love the hustle and bustle of big cities, so it really suits me, but I'd also love to try to live in New York.
Who is the most inspiring person to you?
My mother! She's always been my living-breathing proof that anything can be done if you put your mind to it. Moving across countries, young, with a child and barely knowing the language, yet rocking it and being the business woman she is. She was also always the one who pushed me to do the first step towards my goals, instead of just talking and dreaming about it.
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
I think inspiration can come from wherever, you just have to pay attention to life and be present. :) Personally, I draw a lot of inspiration from experiences, I'm the type of the person that needs constant change and it's what fuels my creativity in a way. On the other hand, I also write a lot of introspective songs that come from thoughts and emotions, things I'm going through at the current moment. And right now, I'm at the stage of my life where I realise that I can do whatever I want!
How would you like to inspire people?
Honestly, I'd mostly like people to have a good time, forget about the everyday for a bit! Be it with my live performances, where I like to immerse people into the experience or the music, where every person takes whatever they feel like taking from the music - be it sad or positive emotions - just go for what you want! That's another thing I'd like to inspire people with - stop shying away from life, go for what you feel is right for you.