Behind The Scenes With…Inesse

Moroccan-American artist Inesse combines musical elements from her rich heritage with contemporary R&B to create a soul-stirring exploration of raw and dark femininity. With hints of Alicia Keys, Jazmine Sullivan, and a through line of Arabic music, Inesse is forging her own unique brand of “Arabic scales and sultry R&B” as she continues to navigate her way through the music industry. We caught up with Inesse to learn more about her journey so far and what we can expect from this up-and-coming artist.

Inesse, what are some of your individual earliest musical memories? 

My parents always told me that while my mother was pregnant with me, she would play music to calm me down whenever I kicked. Even as a baby, music would immediately stop me from crying—my parents always thought it was incredible, honestly.

My earliest memory was on my ninth birthday. I remember getting a pink CD player and Alicia Keys’ ‘Songs in A Minor’. I played that CD so much it eventually stopped working! That album was where my love for R&B began, and has continued to inspire me to create R&B music today. Aside from that, one of my most memorable moments was performing John Rutter’s ‘Requiem’ under his direction at Carnegie Hall with my high school chamber choir.

Who inspires you?

Simply put, music itself inspires me. There are endless opportunities for expansive expression to bring out the most creative aspects of who I am. It allows me to tap into the emotions from different experiences and stories from my own life and others. Music’s ability to touch anyone by breaking the bounds of language, it is an experience one has through energy, rhythm, and feeling, that is what drives me.

Who is your dream collaborator?

This is always a difficult question, because there are so many talented artists I dream of working with. However, Jazmine Sullivan and Beyoncé have always been at the top of my list. Both are vocal powerhouses; Jazmine’s intricate vocal gymnastics and Beyoncé’s use of Arabic scales, which are dear to my heart, not only inspire me, but also challenge me to be a better creative. I know that collaborating with them would create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Highlight of your career so far?

I remember writing all my songs in a notebook when I was younger, performing first for my parents. Now, I’m fortunate enough to perform original pieces that have significant meaning behind the lyrics. Receiving praise for the stories told and engaging in conversations with listeners about how the music touched them has been the highlight of my career so far.

Who else should we listen to from your local scene?

The first person I would highlight is the producer I work very closely with, and works on a lot of the music I have in the queue awaiting release—AudiobyLucas is incredible at what he does! An up and coming R&B Artist out here making moves is Moody Bank$. She is an alto like myself, so I really enjoy her lower sultry register. I would also highlight a Hip-Hop Artist I met during this year’s SXSW, J. Mill. His deep voice and distinctive style really catch your attention.

If you had to change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

My biggest change would be to foster a more exclusive community where music can be shared directly with true fans—those who eagerly anticipate what we create. I see some movement towards building better relationships with fans, but more can be done. A strong connection with fans is integral to an artist’s success.

Any projects in the pipeline that you’d like to share with us?

My freshman EP ‘It Was Good…While It Lasted’ is set to release in August. My team and I have been working tirelessly for over six months on it. The story it tells is one many will relate to, and I’m thrilled to share it. I’ve really enjoyed the ability to explore vocally with this project and really highlight my talents both through writing and vocally!

Learn more about Inesse