Q&A: Ari Abdul on Vulnerability, Creativity and the Future of Pop
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW
BROOKLYN-BASED ARTIST ARI ABDUL is rapidly ascending the ranks of alternative pop. With her captivating blend of dark, atmospheric soundscapes and raw emotional honesty, Abdul has quickly captivated the attention of music lovers worldwide. Her music, a unique fusion of shoegaze influences and a distinctly personal touch, resonates deeply with listeners.
Following the viral success of her debut single "BABYDOLL," Abdul released her captivating EP CCTV, solidifying her position as a rising star in the music scene. The EP showcased her ability to craft emotionally charged songs that explore themes of vulnerability and self-discovery. Building on this momentum, Abdul recently embarked on a successful sold-out European/UK tour, further solidifying her connection with fans across the globe.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into Abdul's creative process, explore the inspirations behind her unique sound, and discuss her exciting plans for the future. We also explore her curated "On Aux" playlist, which features some of her favorite artists, including the enigmatic Mareux.
LUNA: Your recent collaboration with Presley Regier on "Questions" has been well-received. What drew you to this project, and what was the creative process like?
ABDUL: I’ve honestly had "Questions" saved in my playlist before the idea of a remix was brought up to me. I always thought the song was super dope and was beyond excited when I heard Presley was down for a remix. Once I was sent the open verse, I instantly got to work with my favorite writer/producer. We wrote the verse together on my couch through my Alexa.
LUNA: With new music coming in 2025, how are you approaching this next phase of your career?
ABDUL: Truly on everything, I have never been more excited than I am now to release music. Although I do love everything I’ve ever released, I’ve never felt more like myself in my music and I haven’t even really started teasing it which is so exciting. For the last year, I’ve been finding myself as an artist and creating so many cool songs with people I absolutely admire and adore. There’s really special things coming this year.
LUNA: Your music blends dark alternative pop with shoegaze elements. How do your influences - from Nirvana to Latin music-shape your sound today?
ABDUL: I’m still sticking with my same favorite elements and digging even deeper into my idols to find more sounds. I feel like all the new music feels like a true evolution of that and of me.
LUNA: "BABYDOLL" became a viral sensation. How did that success influence your artistic direction moving forward?
ABDUL: “BABYDOLL” to this day is so confusing to me but in the best way. I never imagined anything coming from singing about what I was feeling back then. I’m so grateful for anyone who’s ever resonated and listened to the track. It helped me artistically, because I realized how important it is to be vulnerable in music and I like keeping that humanness in everything.
LUNA: Visuals play a big role in your artistry. How do you cultivate the "mysterious edge" that fans associate with your work?
ABDUL: Honestly, I just stay authentic to myself. Lots of the visuals I make are reflections of how i’m feeling and what I think is sick.
LUNA: Of the playlist you made us, what's been your favorite or influential track lately?
ABDUL: I have always been obsessed with Mareux. He seems so effortlessly cool and I’m constantly addicted to his records. Night Vision is my current favorite of his. Personally and definitely biased but I think he’s criminally underrated. A lot of his music feels like it draws from a lot of the old dark music that inspires me like New Order, Depeche Mode and even Crystal Castles.
LUNA: You recently wrapped your sold-out European/UK tour. What moments stood out most to you while performing for international audiences?
ABDUL: It’s all so surreal for me when I hear people singing the lyrics back at me. It blows my mind that somehow my music made it around the world and means something to them. My listeners are my whole soul and I’d honestly do anything for them so getting to meet and perform for them is always my favorite.
LUNA: What have been the biggest lessons or challenges you've faced since you started creating music in 2021?
ABDUL: Honestly me. I have been my biggest challenge. There’s been so many times I’ve just felt like I wasn’t good enough. Especially since I accidentally fell into music, I had mental battles over how to be better as an artist but I think the most beautiful lesson I’ve learned is that not being the best and being human is what really matters.
LUNA: As you gear up for this year, what message or feeling do you hope listeners take away from your music?
ABDUL: I want listeners to know that no matter what, they’re never alone. We all connect through the music and by existing.