Interview: Aimée Steven

Back in March, Liverpool based musician Aimée Steven released her debut single, “My Name”. Since then, she had her song played at Anfield, where Liverpool FC play and played on BBC Radio 6 Music Mixtape; interviewed on BBC Music Introducing; gotten a band together; and released the music video for her single. A very busy schedule indeed! I had the pleasure of speaking to her and if you want to learn more about her, keep on reading.

She’ll be playing at the Sound City festival in Liverpool, which is on from the 3rd to 5th of May. So if you’re in the area, consider seeing her live. And if you’re not, here’s the single to stream on Spotify and the music video, which is on YouTube. The song is really catchy and the music video is French New Wave inspired, which I love! Definitely looking forward to hearing more music from Aimée.

Angie Moon: How did you get started in music, like what got you interested?

Aimée Steven: I’ve always been a big music fan but I never made the connection between loving music and making it. As I grew up I made friends with a lot of musicians on my local music scene in Liverpool and it soon became clear to me that I wanted to be on the stage and write my own music.

AM: Can you tell me about At Large Records and how you got started with them?

AS: At Large Records is a new and exciting local label who are into doing things a bit differently. They have a lot of cool people behind the scenes and their aim is to build a good relationship with their artists which I love. I was contacted by Jon Withnall at the label who liked my tunes and we started working together last year. Things have moved pretty quickly and we’re excited to see what happens.

AM: What’s it like being a musician from a cool city with an incredible music legacy like Liverpool? 

AS: Liverpool has so much soul and I’m really proud to be from here – I always have been. The music scene is exciting and everyone knows each other, which is cool but can also be a bit strange. Regardless, there’s always something happening which is nice. Obviously, there is a bit of pressure being from such a musically renowned city, but Scousers are really supportive of each other (and others) and if you’re not into that then Liverpool isn’t really the city for you.

AM: How did you get into vintage style?

AS: I’ve always been into fashion and have gone through a lot of phases since I was a teenager. I love the fashion of the 60’s and 70’s particularly as it allowed me to express myself and also make connections between my favourite music and the fashion of the time. I’m continuously inspired by Bowie, Nico, Jane Birkin, Elton John etc who were all fashion icons of their time.

AM: What are you looking forward to this year?

AS: I’m just looking forward to releasing more singles and playing some more shows. Getting all the experience I can and really enjoying myself is what I’m here for. I don’t know what will happen in the next year but I’m sure there is some exciting stuff coming my way and look forward to sharing it with everyone.

AM: What was writing and recording “My Name” like?

AS: It was boss. I love being in the studio and having fun while recording. I wrote the song quite late on in regards to when it was released and it all happened so fast. The reception has been mad, everyone has been so supportive and they seem to love the tune. 

AM: Which musicians inspire you the most?

AS: This question makes me laugh because I always say The Beatles and everyone rolls their eyes. Of course, The Beatles. Not just because I’m a Scouser though, I promise. As I mentioned earlier I really love the 60’s and 70’s eras. Bowie, Velvet Underground, The Band, CCR, Buffalo Springfield and Joni Mitchell. There’s too many to mention. More recently, I really love The Last Shadow Puppets, I think they’re boss.

AM: Who are your favourite musicians you’ve seen live?

AS: It makes me mad because most of the bands/artists I want to see are retired or have passed away.  I went to see Robert Plant not long ago and he was amazing, his voice is still top notch. Father John Misty was cool too – great performer. Everyone I’ve seen has given something different and made it pretty memorable.

AM: What albums would you say shaped your sound the most?

AS: I always struggle when someone asks me what my ‘sound’ is like compared to other artists and what I would describe myself as. I honestly don’t know. I don’t like to compare my music to other artists just because I wouldn’t want to do that to them haha. Nevertheless, I guess some of the 60’s and 70’s stuff I have listened to throughout my teenage years has definitely had an impact on my writing.

AM: Any words for your fans?

AS: Hi mum. haha. I don’t know if I have any yet (apart from my ma). But nice one to everyone who has listened to the track and watched the video – means a lot. 

You can follow Aimée on Facebook and Instagram.