R&B sensation Bellah’s been busy! She opened for Victoria Monet at Roundhouse then collaborated with Grammy winning producer Boi-1da on his AI-produced album in partnership with BACARDÍ Rum. Get familiar with the British singer via this VIPER interview…

Tell us about your most recent collaboration with BACARDÍ and Boi-1da?

Yes – of course! BACARDÍ approached me to join the roster for its annual Music Liberates Music programme, which was all about championing artists across the globe. This year’s edition was specifically focused on exploring how A.I. can be used collaboratively in creating music. Alongside four other artists, I had the chance to work with Boi-1da to produce a track. The final result was ‘The Concept A.I. Album’ which launched globally in December.

What was it like working with Boi-1da and what was the creative process like?

It was such an eye-opening journey and so different to my usual creative process – but in a really fun way! Essentially, we used a generative A.I. tool that was trained on Boi-1da’s sound and through that, we created our own tracks. I put a demo through the app and Boi-1da helped finish the record, I felt super comfortable with working with him as he really gave us the space to put our authentic spin to the track while also guiding us through the more technical parts of using the tool.

What are some challenges you face as an emerging artist? How hard has it been to cut through the noise, especially in the streaming era?

I won’t lie and say that pursuing this career is easy so having the opportunity to partner with BACARDÍ and Boi-1da really is something special. In terms of the challenges, there are thousands of records being released every week and as cliche as it sounds, the key is to be yourself and create moments at every chance you get. 

How do you think new technologies like A.I. can help human creativity within the music industry? Do you think this will be more common in the future? 

It’s an interesting one, for sure. I think A.I. can be used collaboratively in a creative way that helps artists explore different methods to making music. There’s always been new technologies introduced that have helped the industry evolve, whether that’s been autotune or other tools so I don’t think this is much different. Also it’s less about it taking over but more so about finding ways the two can harmoniously work together especially to maximise time and efforts. 

What five words define your sound?

R&B, Alternative, Honest, Heartfelt, DIASPORA.

What is your favourite song to perform?

‘Garden’, closely followed by ‘Evil Eye’.

Tell me something unique about your creative process.

It must always start with a prayer and food. I also can’t make a song with my shoes on.

Which song of yours would you like people to hear first?

‘Evil eye’/‘Prototype’

Where can people keep in touch with you?

@ibebellah on everything