Multi-talented artist Bella Renee discussed how drum and bass transformed her life and shared her insights on the genre’s future.
DJ, producer, and vocalist Bella Renee has been making waves lately in the music scene. Based in Phoenix, this emerging artist is heating things up with her energetic tracks and captivating performances. While she has explored various genres, one has particularly captured her heart: drum and bass.
“Drum and bass has unexpectedly become a significant part of my identity,” Bella Renee shared, recounting the pivotal moment in 2021 when she collaborated with REAPER on the track “IMY. This track has since graced the stages of major festivals like EDC Las Vegas, Beyond Wonderland, and Countdown.
“IMY” has exceeded 26 million streams and received support from notable artists such as Excision and Illenium, culminating in its selection as the grand finale track at the closing show in kineticFIELD at EDC Las Vegas 2023. “I had no idea how transformative that one drum and bass song would be for my life!” she exclaimed.
For Bella Renee, the music is just part of the journey; the community has been a powerful motivator. “I’ve met some of the kindest people in the EDM community and connected with incredible artists and fans in the drum and bass scene. I’m so grateful for that,” she reflected. “It inspired me to create my own original drum and bass music as Bella Renee.”
I started DJing because of drum and bass and how much I absolutely love it. The way I can blend my influences from Paramore and Linkin Park and perform it in such an epic way is the best thing in the world.
Bella Renee
Among those artists are Skellytn and Dr. Apollo, two of Bella’s closest friends who have encouraged her to push her limits and provided support throughout her journey. “It’s been wonderful to have their backing, create music together, and witness our growth in drum and bass unfold,” she expressed.
Bella Renee isn’t alone in witnessing the rise of drum and bass’s popularity. “I’ve noticed DJs incorporating drum and bass tracks into their sets more frequently over the past few years,” she observed. “Artists like Fred Again.., Four Tet, and Skrillex have been instrumental in bringing it to main stages, like Coachella, which has made it even more popular.”
As audiences began responding positively, more DJs started releasing drum and bass records; some even developed entire DNB sets or aliases, leading to its surge in popularity. This has highlighted emerging drum and bass producers and sparked a movement in the US.
Bella Renee
With drum and bass gaining traction, artists like Bella Renee are leading its sonic evolution. Her tracks, such as “Hollow” featuring Skellytn and “COLD CASE” with REAPER, showcase her unique style. She’s also ventured beyond drum and bass, collaborating on bass house tracks like “My Fix” with Benzi and Velvet Cash and exploring dubstep with Neotek and Jacknife on “BREATHLESS.”
I hope to see drum and bass continue evolving while retaining its fun, distinctive essence with innovative twists and a nostalgic vibe. My goal is to introduce a fresh sound to drum and bass through my songwriting and vocal performances, all while honoring the genre’s legends and understanding its history.
Bella Renee
Bella Renee envisions a future where festivals like Rampage make their way to the US and more drum and bass artists take the main stages. Following the impactful performance of WORSHIP at kineticFIELD during EDC Orlando last weekend, it seems her wishes may soon come true.
She also highlighted the contributions of talented women pushing drum and bass forward. “Artists such as Becky Hill, Kenya Grace, Charlotte Plank, Koven, A Little Sound, and Venbee are incredible forces in the genre,” she noted. “[They] pave the way for women and artists to innovate and shine.”
I’ve observed a significant shift in how drum and bass is appreciated in America. We often overlook those who have bravely embraced new genres, sounds, and feelings. Embracing new ideas reflects curiosity and courage, which is something truly beautiful to recognize.
Bella Renee
As the conversation wrapped up, Bella Renee shared some artists she’s been inspired by lately: “Skellytn produces heavy and gritty neuro DnB, Dr. Apollo creates high-energy DnB with unique basslines, and Don Darkoe has an energetic jump-up sound that I adore. Neotek and I have been crafting some fantastic drum and bass that feels like alt-rock DnB. Charlotte Plank has also been making catchy, energetic tracks that inspire me!”
Check out this exclusive guest mix from Bella Renee on SoundCloud and follow her on social media to stay updated on her upcoming releases and performances!
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