VI.BE

My artist name wasn't easily born and I had to think a lot about it. I was experimenting with my real name but I wanted to celebrate both my mum and dad. My mum is from Arequipa, Peru and to be honest coming to Belgium at twenty-five wasn't easy for her. She's a very strong and independent woman whom I'm really proud of. My dad is from Belgium. So, that's how the name "Aré Bell" was born!

Growing up was hard for me. While being in elementary school little kids mentioned my color of skin and it made me feel different, which was actually weird. At that age, I was fully Belgian in my head. It didn't occur to me how loudly my skin color spoke for me. I was born in Belgium and I have so many Belgian habits. Little did I know how many Peruvian habits we had. Now I do and sometimes it hurts when someone asks me where I'm from, because the truth is that I forget it far too easily. It's something to be proud of, not something to be ashamed of. Me choosing this name is an act toward my parents but also toward me. Me accepting these pieces that morphed me into the person I am.

My songs aren't for the weak. I'm not afraid to speak my truth, to reflect on my feelings, past and mistakes. Songwriting is my creative form of putting my emotions down on paper and trying to make sense of them. Since, I was little I was obsessed with little books, diaries and journals. Begging my parents to buy them. They've been my constant companion throughout my life. I'm so proud to tell you that I've finally find the courage to step out of my comfort zone and sing loudly my story for you!

Sending you kisses and lots of love, Aré Bell