Artist of the Month (Dec. 2021): Louise Mambell

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your musical project?

I grew up in the Middle East in Bahrain and have always sung at home, writing songs with my keyboard. As I was in an English-speaking school the first years of my life, English came up naturally in my writing.

I have been moving around the world, from Bahrain to the southeast of France, then to the west coast of France, then London, and now in Paris.

Music has always been in my life, or should I say, in my bedroom because that’s the only place I would sing.

This year 2021 I’ve been on The Voice France and made it to the quarter-finals, which was a cool experience. So the past year has been a massive step in my career. I’ve also quit my previous job as a hairstylist and am now living as a vocal coach whilst also working on my own music.

Can you tell us about your inspirations and the process of creating your latest release "Like A Devil"?

Like a Devil is about an impossible love story. I very often write about love. I was in a music school for a year ( from October 2020 to June 2021 ) and also took part in The Voice during that time (the show was aired only later, in February 2021 ). So during that scholarship, I learned a lot more about music theory, piano, writing, etc. I would go to school after hours and explore what I had learned.

First, the piano came up, I was practicing my chords and found the ones from the song. I instantly started humming the first lyrics, which came out as if they were meant to be. I kept playing it live in small gigs where my friends knew all the lyrics and that song became my favorite. I then collaborated with my friend and artist, Jim Bauer, who produced the record in his home studio where he added some guitar, bass, drums… and made it what it is. It was so much fun to watch the song become what it is today.

I’ve always been inspired by pop music and powerful/unique voices such as Charlotte Cardin, Lorde, Freya Ridings, Adele…

Did you record the album in your home studio? If so, what was your process, and do you have any tips to share for aspiring musicians getting started?

I did record it in a home studio, but not my own. It was with a friend, but his equipment is all professional, which led to a professional result.

However, I do have a home studio myself! It’s always a good way to create some demos and be independent to start with. There are some really interesting deals on Thomann's website, with starter packs.

Do you have an established strategy for promoting your new music? If so, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians?

I wouldn’t say established but I try to be as active as possible on social media, that’s where my audience is at the moment, especially after being on The Voice.

I think the most important thing is to be honest and spontaneous, go with your gut, and never let others’ opinions change your mind about your own tastes and choices. Also, CONSISTENCY is key! It’s not always easy but small bricks day by day make a huge difference throughout the year. Sometimes it’s important to have off days and let it be, don’t compare yourself to other people's journeys. We all have our own and they are all valid! <3

What does it mean to you to be independent in music?

It means things take more time, which isn’t a bad thing. But sometimes a little help would be a way to focus on the music-making rather than putting on all different hats; communicating, marketing, planning… But I do enjoy being independent for now, in that way I get to know myself better, before working with a team.

What are you working on now / have planned for 2022?

I’m working on my upcoming EP, it will be out in 2022 (that’s all I can say for now haha)