Interview With Ines Rae
What’s the story behind your artist name — and does it reflect who you are today?
It’s my actual name so it will always reflect who I am today and who I’ve always been!
Which song of yours means the most to you, and what inspired it?
It’s tricky to choose between Someone Else’s heart and Bad things scream when they’re dying (demo). They both mean a lot to me. Someone else’s heart was written about my dad having a heart transplant. It feels like a time capsule as I wrote it during the time he was still in hospital. Bad things scream when they’re dying is about eating disorders and growing up with diet culture and I think baby Ines needs that song so I wrote it for her
How would you describe your sound in three words — and why those?
Ballads in baggy jeans (sorry that’s four words) but I like to think that my songs are emotive and lyrically relatable, catchy but cool.
What was the moment you truly felt like an artist — not just someone making music?
When I sold out my latest London headline show. It was my first O2 venue at O2 Islington 2 and seeing my fans sing back my lyrics to songs that weren’t even out yet it was amazing.
Who are your biggest musical influences, and how do they show up in your work?
Lewis Capaldi for sure. His voice and storytelling are amazing. I also love that his social media presence is so fun and lighthearted and juxtaposed to his music which is gut wrenching it makes him so relatable. I would like to say my work is similar
What’s your creative process like — from a blank page to a finished track?
I always start with the concept. I have a massive list of lyrics on my phone and I choose whichever one feels like the right fit for that day. Then we lay down some chords on guitar or piano and I’ll sing a melody over the top. Then I’ll write the lyrics and get recording
If someone’s hearing you for the first time, which track should they start with — and why?
Start with the most emotional one like Bad Things Scream When They’re Dying (demo) or Someone Else’s Heart, so you can cry and then move on to the more upbeat ones that will make you dance.
What’s been your most unforgettable moment on your music journey so far?
There’s been so many but probably being asked to be a celebrity ambassador for the NHS. I have such a special place in my heart for the NHS. They saved my dads life and it was an honour that they found my song “Someone Else’s Heart” and asked me to spread awareness about organ and blood donation
What do you want people to feel when they hear your music?
Happy and sad at the same time, free and like they fit in
What’s next for you — and what should fans be excited about?
I planning to go on a tour. It will be my first one and I’m super excited
