After spending the last few months building and developing her sound, Australia-based, Indonesian newcomer Michelle Limanjae has now delivered her stunning debut single 'Hey Dear Heidi'.
Taking her cues from the bright and uplifting 90s pop-rock aesthetic, 'Hey Dear Heidi' makes for a wonderfully fresh and exciting introduction to her sound. Filled with shimmering textures, a soaring atmosphere, and her own captivating voice at the helm, it already feels like we'll be hearing a lot more from her in the months to come.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with her to find out more about her background and what has inspired her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Definitely, guitar! It was the first instrument I’ve always wanted to learn since I was a kid! At 11 years old, I got my first acoustic guitar as my birthday gift from my parents. Since that day, I taught myself how to play chords and sing at the same time.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
When I was young, I was still on a journey looking for my identity. So I can say, mostly I listened to everything that sounds good! I've definitely been surrounded by Indonesian pop songs! But as I remember, I was also into soulful artists such as Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Prince and many more. Inspired by the musical style, I was eager to hit high notes & perfecting my vocal techniques, especially riff & runs.
I also listened to 90s pop music such as, The Corrs, The Cranberries, Alanis Morissette & M2M. When listening to those nostalgic things, it always puts a smile on my face. Then, moved on to the alt-rock & pop-punk phase like, RHCP, Linkin Park & Nirvana but still liking other genres at the same time.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I don’t really remember but maybe it was Britney Spears first album? Or Dido’s album, the one with “White Flag” in it.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Too many in mind! Killer Queen by Queen is one of them.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not at all. For me, song ideas came through randomly. For example, there’s a song that’s basically a portrayal of my dream that I spilled into lyrics. But most of the time, when I think of something I write it straight away on my notes then elaborate it. Usually before I go to bed, I love it to be peaceful and quiet when I write new stuff.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
At the moment, I’ve been listening to a lot of anime OST hehehehe! Also, ONE OK ROCK & Radiohead.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I’d love to open for Red Hot Chilli Peppers! I love their energy!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Self-satisfaction is the most rewarding part, especially that proud feeling when you’re finally finished a full song on your own. Then, getting my music heard by people always makes me feel appreciated too! Also chances to collaborate with talented people & also keep learning instruments, exploring sounds & composition.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Having writer’s block in the middle of the songwriting/composing process. And losing self-confidence at some point and then trying to convince myself all over again.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Believe in yourself, it’s better to have the courage to show your piece to the world rather than keeping it to yourself. Trust in process & progress, it’s gonna be rough & difficult, but when you choose to keep going, you’ll see a tiny bit of progress. And that’s such an achievement that will lead us to a bigger picture.
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Michelle Limanjae's debut single 'Hey Dear Heidi' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.