Starting his modeling career at the age of 16, Aaron Beri is not just a pretty face but is also an extraordinary musician. Currently based in Australia, Aaron as many other artists have been facing difficulties with the COVID-19 restrictions, but instead of dwelling on it, he has instead put his thoughts into words, or rather lyrics in his new song “Run Away”.
At what age did your passion for music and production of music start?
I feel like the passion has always existed inside of me, I just wasn’t always aware of it. Some of my earliest ‘musical moments’ consisted of me howling the Pokémon theme song, attempting to dance like Justin Timberlake in his “Señorita” video clip, and jamming away to TLC’s “Waterfalls” in the back of my mum’s beat up Jeep. I like to mix it up, that’s for sure.
What made you want to pursue a musician life in addition to your professional modeling career?
I was in New York modelling for quite a while. During that time, I was writing down all of my feelings. I was only 16 years old. What started off as poetry quickly evolved into melodies, followed by recordings. Throw my love of performing into the mix and, voilà, you get a passionate singer-songwriter!
How did you manage to change a bad situation such as the pandemic’s isolation and restrictions into a good one where you gained inspiration for your music?
A lot changed for everyone during the pandemic. For me, I feel that this time has been really productive and I’m thankful for the extra opportunities that I got to work on my craft. I managed to dive deep into my subconscious and explore so many different feelings. The good, the bad, the ugly; you name it, I felt it. I can’t wait to show the world the music that’s come out of that.
How did you come to work with one of the best producers in the world who helped with the hits from Justin Bieber, Usher, etc.?
Blue [Brandon Blue Hamilton, “Bassie Blue”] spontaneously slid into my DMs and said, “we should make some good music together.” I think we’ve now created around 14 songs together. He’s awesome and it’s an honour to work with him.
Who was your idol and inspiration that inspired you to follow through with your dreams?
I wouldn’t necessarily say that I’ve ever had an ‘idol’, but there are people that I admire and take inspiration from—mainly Dolly Parton, Sara Evans and, more recently, Kelsea Ballerini. I’m a HUGE country music lover. Their song writing is so raw, and I think there’s a lot to be learnt from that.
What are you planning to do for your future in this career?
I feel like I’m at a stage now where I’m evolving into who Aaron Beri really is. It’s a weird feeling, sort of like trying to find your way out of a maze. I want my music to stand the test of time and last. When I’m 90 and hit play on my first album, I want to feel a fresh tropical breeze take over my body. Ha!
Do you plan on having any tours in the future when the pandemic restrictions ease up?
Yes! I’m so excited to hit the road in 2022! I’m heading to Brazil first, followed by LA and Miami. It’s going to be a wild and unforgettable experience, especially after the past 18 months of living under restrictions.
Tell us what challenges you have overcome during the making of the new single, and how did you use them to your advantage?
My biggest challenge was trying to be ‘heard’ in Australia. I had everyone—from record executives to A&R representatives—listen to “Run Away”, with most of them usually saying, “Oh, its alternative”. I was shocked, because it’s so heavily R&B-influenced in my mind, so hearing that was really frustrating. After a couple of months, most of those same people began to come onboard and tell me that they really enjoyed the song. Nothing changed about it—it’s the same lyrics, same mix, same master. Just their perception of me changed, perhaps. So, it’s tough to rely on so many different and changing opinions; even though they’re helpful, they can make your head spin. I plan on just doing my thing and letting my wins speak for themselves.
Would you be comfortable with changing your music style from R&B and modern, contemporary sounds to something else such as hip hop or techno in the future?
I’m 100% sure you will be hearing me bop away on some hip-hop tracks very soon. I’m really excited for what’s in the works right now.
How are you handling the fast-growing success as a young music artist?
It’s wild. I’m taking everything in stride. I’m also ignoring a lot of nasty messages and turning off social media comments because nobody needs somebody else’s negative energy. I try to surround myself with as much positivity and inspiration as I can.
If you could rewrite any song, or do anything differently in the past, what would it be and why?
When I was younger, I used to hate hearing adults say, “If I had my time again…” or “If I was younger, I wished I’d done…”. So, as I grew up, I made myself promise to never look back. Your hiccups are all a part of what makes you unique and they all contribute to your individual story.
What are you plans for the upcoming album “Paris to Vegas”?
I’m so excited that the album is finally happening. It’s in the master stages right now, but we may even be adding more tracks. I’m heading back into the studio in a couple of weeks to put the final touches on things and listen to the 14+ tracks in full. The tour starts next year in Brazil, so rehearsals are getting closer, too. Just pray I don’t have to dance (too much!).
