Meet AIMAN | Singer-Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with AIMAN and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi AIMAN, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve always been a really emotional person who just feels everything very deeply. Before I started making music and channeling those feelings into something, they would just sit and stir in my mind and my body, becoming my entire reality that I couldn’t escape. Music is a cathartic release, and I realized that I’m a lot more emotionally balanced in my day-to-day life when I have a consistent creative outlet. I’ve also just always been really passionate about art in general, and the role it plays in our lives. The human experience is so complicated and interesting, and the art that we make is how we get to know each other (and ourselves) through all the noise. I used to feel ashamed of how emotional I can be, but in songwriting it’s actually become my greatest strength, and it’s so fulfilling to be able to make something that resonates with other people.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’d say that what sets me apart is the fact that I’ve been a musician my whole life, but in a lot of different contexts. I’ve played instruments, performed and studied the classical style, jazz, South Asian music, and more. Where I’ve landed with my original music is the most authentic version of my self-expression, and I’m bringing in tools from all of the different musical “lives” that I’ve lived.

I’ve also worked in the music industry, which taught me the kind of work ethic and resources that you need to build something for yourself. There are so many talented people making music, but to get that music to an actual audience requires a lot more than just talent, and I’m so grateful that I could “peek behind the curtain” to see what the landscape is really like. It definitely wasn’t easy, and I feel like I got a later start than most to my artist career because it took me a while to realize that this was even possible for me, but I’m here for the long game and I feel like all of the different jobs and musical environments I’ve been in have given me invaluable insight to finally pour into my own work.

Through all of the different chapters I’ve lived so far, the biggest lesson I’ve learned as an artist is that making great music isn’t about impressing people, it’s about making them feel something. You can study the technicalities of making music and performing for your entire life (and you probably should study it to a certain point if you want to make great stuff), but what really resonates with people is what you’re saying and how you’re saying it. Does it feel honest and new? Or does it feel too performative or redundant? Getting to the true core of your own identity and perspective is a spiritual journey that lots of people shy away from without even realizing it. But when you let yourself go on that journey it unlocks your authentic creative voice, and people can hear it / feel it in your music.

What I want the world to know about me is that this is just the beginning, and that my listeners can expect my music to evolve over time. I’m building a brand centered on the complex experience of being a softhearted woman in this world, which feels different every year, both as I get older and as the culture changes.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My favorite thing about LA is that there are always some amazing shows going on around the city. Every week is different, so depending on what’s playing we would maybe go to the Hollywood Bowl, The Mint, or the Troubadour.

Another thing I love about LA is that it has some of the best filmmakers in the world, and I’m obsessed with the intersection of film and music. I would take a friend to see an independent film screening and get to know the local talent, or maybe even a live-to-picture concert.

Outside of that, we would obviously need to go hiking and hit the beach, which you can actually do in the same day here. There are also some amazing wineries in Malibu right next to beautiful hiking trails — going on a hike and sipping some wine after is one of my favorite weekend activities. As for food, we would probably go to Castaway or Yamashiro for dinner with a beautiful view, and get tacos from Avenue 26 after exploring the city all day.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Family is everything to me, and my mom especially has always set the example for how to pave your own path as a woman. I owe all my strength and confidence to her, as well as my ability to adapt to change. I think as an artist you need to be willing to roll with the punches, adjust, and still build something that’s true to your vision – even though she’s not an artist herself, that has been her approach to life and work, and it basically showed me what’s possible.

Instagram: @aiman.musicc

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AimanMusicc

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0VxGIMmyTqPoASbJRZjiNe

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/aiman/1694841206

Image Credits
Jocelyn Campbell, Caroline Rose, Dakotah Whiting, Manni Singh, Nick Gonzalez, Cole Maslansky