Get To Know: Beren Olivia
We’re getting to knowBerenOliviathis week, the 22-year-old alt-pop singer songwriter who taught herself to play guitar when she was 13 and over the years has developed her love for emotive storytelling.
Putting these skills into her music, she released her debut EP 'Early Hours Of The AM'earlier this year. The five-track project reflects what it’s like being young, in love and finding yourself along the way. Inspired by Taylor Swift, Avril Lavigne and Halsey,Beren’s music is relatable with a dark, bassy feel on production.
Having built up her fanbase across lockdown whilst sharing parts of her life and song covers on YouTube, she has received support from Radio 1 and will be supporting Sam Ryder on tour next year. We’re excited to see what’s next forBerenOlivia!
1. For those who don’t know about you and your music, tell us a little bit about who you are and where you’refrom…
Hi! My name is Beren Olivia and I’m a singer songwriter from Hertfordshire, just outside of London, UK. I write poems, talk a lot about myfeelings and annoy my neighbours playing YUNGBLUD on repeat really loudly in the house. I also own a lot ofrescue dogs.
2. Who/what inspired you to start a career in music?
I was always writing, even as a child in the back of my school books during class. Once I taught myself someguitar chords, the poems started turning into songs. I remember the first time I sang in front of my parents. Itwas after dinner around the table and I sang an Adele song.
3. Who are your biggest musical influences?
I grew up on artists like Pink, Avril Lavigne, Kings of Leon, Coldplay and Alanis Morissette who I think heavilyinfluenced my overall sound. As I got older in my early teenage years I found artists Taylor Swift, Halsey andYUNGBLUD who really inspire me lyrically.
4. Tell us about the writing and recording process of your new release…
It was all over Zoom! I was writing constantly throughout the lockdown last year and met some incredible peopleonline. In summer 2020 I reached out to the producer Dylan Bauld, initially as a fan as he’s worked with some ofmy idols like Halsey. I asked if he’d be down to work together and produce my songs. I was so excited when hesaid yes!
5. What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
I duetted a Tiktok with James Arthur earlier this year and he ended up seeing it and getting in touch. He thenasked me to open for him at a show of his in London. From having done no live shows to having a James Arthursupport slot was a pretty cool feeling.
6. Who would you be your dream collaboration and why?
There are so many artists and writers that I’d love to work with. I feel like I’ve spoken about him a lot during thisinterview but YUNGBLUD is definitely on that list. I love his passion and the emotion that he sings with. He singsabout things that matter and he’s making a difference because of it.
7. Have you met anyone and been totally starstruck?
I’ve always said if I ever meet Taylor Swift, someone should be on standby with a defibrillator.
8. If you could only listen to one song on repeat for the rest of time what would it be and why?
Al Green - 'How Can You Mend a Broken Heart'. It’s my family's song. Whenever I listen to it there are so many childhoodmemories.
9. What’s on your playlists that people wouldn’t expect?
I think people know that my music taste is all over the place. There are no boundaries with my playlist. JadenSmith? I don’t think people would look at me and think I know all the words to Icon…but I can confirm ya girl does
10. What can we expect from your live shows?
Massive guitars, insane drums, lots of jumping and crowd interaction. It will feel like there isn’t a stage - we’re alljust singing together.
11. Have you got any fun livestreams/online events planned for this year? / When can we see you live?
Next year will be the year of live shows for me! I’m supporting Sam Ryder in Januaryand that will be the first of many exciting plans for the year! Im really looking forward to getting out there and meeting everyone who hasbeen supporting me since my first song came out last year.
'Beren'sEP 'Early Hours of the AM' is out now!'