We dive into the world of Belleune, the Aussie sensation behind the infectious single ‘Let’s Go See a Movie’
Nestled in the vibrant music scene of Melbourne, we caught up with Belleune, who generously took some time out to chat with us on her much-needed “nothing” day after a hectic gig week to break down her latest track.
We delve into her spontaneous songwriting process, her penchant for vocal layering and dynamic transitions, and her sound, a perfect blend of R&B and pop, which channels vibes from Billie Eilish, Doja Cat, and Tame Impala.
Not one to rest on her laurels, Belleune dropped word of a couple of upcoming tracks and collaborations, including the highly anticipated release ‘How Can I Love You’ featuring Aiden Somerville.
And amidst the music buzz, she shares her personal bliss—her awesome hubby, a furry golden retriever, and an undeniable love for food. Stay tuned for more Belleune magic!
Happy: Hey there, what are you up to today?
Belleune: Today? A much needed “nothing” day! Just finished a 6-gig week so I slept in and woke up at 11am, went for lunch with my husband, and then got on my computer for this interview. I think I’ll just chill on the couch with netflix after this haha!
Happy:Tell us a little about where you live, what’s the scene like, and what do you love about it?
Belleune: Melbourne, Australia!! There’s lots of great food and variety – really spoilt for options; and not to mention the best coffee in the world.
Yes we’re coffee snobs. :p It’s also a great place to live and work as a musician – we’re never short on gigs (weddings, corporate events, birthdays, parties.. all the fun stuff).
Happy: Congrats on the release of ‘Let’s Go See a Movie’! Can you tell us about what inspired you to write this song, and what kind of emotions or experiences do you hope it evokes in listeners?
Belleune: Thank you! The song was inspired by a high school boyfriend who always wanted to go to the movies just to make out – though sometimes I just wanted to watch the movie (especially horror movies – since I’m a huge horror movie fan).
The song is a playful and whimsical tune that hopefully captures the fun and silliness of young love, set to the backdrop of a cinema.
It’s a song that’s as much about reliving those carefree moments as it is about enjoying the present. It’s for anyone who’s ever loved, laughed, or just wanted to watch the movie!
Happy: Beyond the initial spark of inspiration, how do you typically structure your songwriting and production process? Do you have a specific routine or method you follow, or is it more fluid and spontaneous?
Belleune: I don’t have much of a structure when it comes to songwriting – or anything really.
My creative pursuits can be described as bursts of spontaneity haha.. some of my songs were written at 2am with me playing on my acoustic guitar and something just pops in my head; some were written on a live stream on Twitch starting with some random loops; another song was written while I was in the toilet, and my husband was drumming in the next room that inspired a tune!
In all cases, usually the tune comes first, which inspires the vibe/theme, then the lyrics.
Happy: ‘Let’s Go See a Movie’ transitions from a sparse soundscape to a full-fledged chorus. How do you approach building musical tension and dynamics within your songs? What tools and techniques do you use to achieve the desired effect?
Belleune: A solid beat / foundation is key in this song. The beat and bass remains pretty consistent throughout but the layers build as the song progresses.
One of my favourite things to do is vocal layering – doubles of melody and harmonies panned left, right, center with changes in reverb/delay and EQ.
The verse and spoken vocals in the pre-chorus are dry with minimal reverb, then the reverb comes as we build up into the chorus; and plus the comping electric guitar for a bit of that rhythmic drive on top of some synths and heavy bass.
I also like having repeated motifs throughout the song – something familiar for the listener to hook onto. Not to forget the very random ‘movie sound bites’ between sections haha!
Happy:Your sound seems to draw influences from both R&B and pop. Are there any specific artists in each genre that have significantly shaped your musical direction?
Belleune: I’m a huge Billie Eilish fan so she’s definitely an influence on this track.
There’s a bit of Doja Cat & Tame Impala in this as well. I do like listening to a variety of music so you’ll hear other influences in my other songs.
Happy: What are some of your upcoming goals as an artist? Are there any specific milestones you’re aiming to achieve?
Belleune: I’m currently working on several unfinished tracks that I want to release in the next 2 years, and also collaborating with other artists – because it’s always more fun when creating music with others!
Happy: As an Australian artist, do you feel there’s a unique sound or perspective that you bring to the global music scene?
Belleune: I do hope so – but I guess that’s something for the listeners to decide.
For me personally, I do like experimenting and my sound and perspective is always changing.
Happy: Anything coming up in the near future?
Belleune: My next track ‘How can I love you’ releases 27th March and features another Australian artist, Aiden Somerville. Check it out!! :)
Happy:Lastly, what makes you happy?
Belleune: Besides music, my lovely husband and our gorgeous 8 year old golden retriever :) OH… AND FOOD.