Ariel Tan: A Rising Voice in Music
A Journey Through Music
Ariel Tan, a fourth-year Asian American studies student, has been weaving her life experiences into the fabric of her music for as long as she can remember. With a passion for songwriting that began in her childhood, Tan has taken significant strides in her singer-songwriter career over the past year, performing original songs at various venues across Los Angeles. As she works on her first EP, tentatively titled “MUSE,” Tan aims to create music that resonates with audiences by sharing her unique perspective.
The Challenge of Vulnerability
For Tan, the most significant challenge in her musical journey is embracing vulnerability. “One of the biggest challenges for me is being very vulnerable and honest with my music,” she explains. She believes that the songs born from personal experiences carry a deeper power and connection. This authenticity is a cornerstone of her artistry, allowing her to forge meaningful connections with her listeners.
Musical Roots and Growth
Tan’s love for music blossomed in her early years, starting with karaoke sessions with her father. This playful introduction to vocal performance laid the groundwork for her future in music. As she grew older, her passion evolved; she began keeping a songwriting journal and learned to play the piano, guitar, and ukulele during middle school. These formative experiences shaped her into the artist she is today.
At UCLA, Tan has further honed her craft by taking three songwriting classes and pursuing a minor in music industry studies. Her friend and fellow singer-songwriter, Manisha Wanniappa, recalls meeting Tan in a songwriting class, where she quickly recognized Tan’s ability to tackle songwriting challenges, such as creating catchy melodies under pressure. This sentiment is echoed by Tan’s manager, Adam Levine, who highlights her lyricism as one of her standout qualities.
Musical Influences and Inspirations
Tan’s musical style is a blend of R&B and pop, drawing inspiration from artists like Bruno Mars and Kehlani. Her mixed-race Hawaiian heritage also plays a significant role in her music, infusing it with cultural richness. For instance, her song “Dear Ohana” features island imagery that reflects her familial ties, while her ukulele cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” showcases her versatility.
Her songwriting often delves into personal narratives, such as her track “Growing Pains,” which explores her experiences as an Asian American girl in Los Angeles. Additionally, she finds inspiration in the relationships of those around her, as seen in her song “On My Side,” which is inspired by the characters Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington from the popular Netflix series “Bridgerton.”
Empowerment Through Music
While Tan enjoys writing about romance, she also sees her music as a platform for social change. Her song “Velvet,” penned when she was just 14, focuses on female empowerment, portraying women as both smooth and strong. This duality reflects her desire to inspire and uplift through her art.
Performing Live: A Growing Experience
Over the past year, Tan has taken her music to the stage, performing at various venues in Los Angeles, including Durango Cantina and the Viper Room. She is eager to expand her performance opportunities, with aspirations of gracing the iconic Troubadour stage one day. Although performing live can be nerve-wracking, Tan has gained confidence through experience. Wanniappa, who has shared the stage with her, describes Tan as a mesmerizing performer who commands attention with her confident presence.
Upcoming Projects and Future Aspirations
Currently, one of Tan’s songs, “Beauty at its Finest,” is available on SoundCloud, and she is diligently working on finalizing her EP after graduation. Her next performance is scheduled for January at the UnUrban Coffee House in Santa Monica. Until then, Tan remains committed to writing and performing, embracing the journey of self-expression through music.
“Just putting yourself out there and being raw and open and vulnerable in front of people,” Tan emphasizes, encapsulating her approach to artistry. Her dedication to authenticity and connection is what sets her apart as a rising voice in the music industry, and her journey is just beginning.
