I love how the upbeat spirit and tempo of the song contrast with the more serious nature of the lyrics. What is the story behind this song?
Amelie: "Faking Parties" is every main character’s anthem - it’s about feeling the need to make an excuse to hang out with your crush because you’re too scared to admit that you have strong feelings for them. I wanted the production & energy of the track to reflect the idea of a party but also to symbolise the fun, carefree, nonchalant impression of the white lie. But the truth of the song & the protagonist’s feelings come out through the lyrics - it’s like a confession because the protagonist is trying so hard not to confess.
What was studying at Benenden like for you?
Amelie: Benenden was not only a super fun & transformative experience, but it was also an incredibly important stepping stone for me in my life & my musical journey. I genuinely wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of the music department there and the school in general. I also really did make friends for life - you know your friends are real ones if they’re willing to fake a party with you in less than 24 hours for a guy they’d never met before!
What first made you want to get into music, and what do you enjoy most about being an artist?
Amelie: Music has always been such a huge part of my life, I’ve been playing instruments for as long as I can remember (I almost can’t imagine not playing one!), and I grew up watching a lot of DVDs & videos of artists doing live shows or going on tour, and I was completely mesmerised by the way that someone could connect with a group of people in such a personal way. From my first Taylor Swift tour DVD onwards, I told myself that I wanted to write songs that would make people feel things and one day be able to share that human experience with a crowd. So for me, that’s one of the best parts of being an artist, but the creative process of each track (from writing to producing to recording in the studio) is equally fulfilling and one of, if not my favourite parts.
Guitar, drums, keyboard – you play a wide variety of instruments. Which of the three do you enjoy most, and what, if any, others do you have your eye on?
Amelie: I start most of my song ideas on guitar or keyboard, so I probably play them the most & can’t imagine life without them, but the drum kit has a very special place in my heart because I picked it up when I was 3 years old. I would really love to be able to play bass as well - for the complete band set!
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of music?
Amelie: I’m really interested in Ancient & Classical Literature, jewellery design, fashion, race cars, and amateur art.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, both for navigating the industry and for life in general?
Amelie: Just to enjoy the moment and fully be present in it because you’re never going to be in the same moment ever again.
Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass
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