### Aviella Winder: The Rise of a Soulful Indie Pop Sensation
Hailing from Rochester and now thriving in Los Angeles, Aviella Winder—known mononymously as Aviella—has carved a niche for herself in the music industry. The singer-songwriter started her journey by posting cover songs on YouTube, gradually evolving her style into a unique blend of soulful indie pop. Her sound is characterized by catchy melodies, deeply personal lyrics, and her signature, distinctive vocals. This artistic evolution quickly gained the attention of the electronic dance music community, where she has established herself as a sought-after collaborator.
### Miami Music Week: A Full Circle Moment
Recently, Aviella returned from her second consecutive year at Miami Music Week (MMW). She described the experience as feeling remarkably “full circle,” highlighting the importance of connection with other artists. For her, MMW is akin to a family reunion, a gathering of individuals united by a shared passion for music. “There’s something really special about being surrounded by people who are all there for the same reason,” she reflected, noting how inspiring it is to witness the power of music bringing people together.
Aviella also performed at the EDM Awards during MMW, an event she found particularly meaningful as it marked her return to the stage for a second time. This year, she stepped into a new realm—DJing—as a self-taught artist. “It felt like the beginning of something really exciting!” she shared, indicating that the experience marked a significant milestone in her artistic journey.
### The Inspiration Behind “Ritual”
Aviella’s latest single, “Ritual,” showcases her creative depth. Inspired by the notion that love can take on a sacred quality, the song transcends merely routine behaviors. “To me, a ‘ritual’ isn’t just routine; it’s something you return to with intention,” she explains. The piece explores the beauty and haunting nature of repetitive desires, illustrating an emotional connection that may surface even unconsciously.
The music video for “Ritual” adds another layer of artistry. Aviella envisioned a hypnotic and immersive visual experience, aiming to evoke feelings rather than simply narrate a story. An unexpected moment during filming occurred when rain began to pour during an outdoor shot. Instead of disrupting the shoot, this added a raw, cinematic energy that enhanced the artistic vision. The behind-the-scenes moments encapsulated the DIY spirit of the project, from managing scattered flower petals to embracing spontaneity. The choreography, a focal point of the video, united the visual narrative with emotional resonance.
### The Art of Collaboration
Collaboration has played a crucial role in Aviella’s career, allowing her to work across various EDM subgenres. When discussing her approach to collaborations, she emphasizes the importance of energy and openness in the creative process. “My favorite sessions are those where everyone feels free to throw out ideas,” she reveals. Aviella often arrives with a lyrical concept or melody, which serves as a foundation for collaborative exploration. Keeping a “songwriting fuel” list—filled with snippets of thoughts and emotions—helps her tap into inspiration spontaneously during sessions.
### Navigating Growth in a Fast-Paced Industry
As an artist in the ever-evolving dance music scene, Aviella has faced challenges in balancing rapid growth with sustainable artistry. “One of the biggest challenges has been navigating growth in a space that moves so quickly,” she admits. Finding a supportive team has been integral to overcoming these hurdles. Supporting her artistic vision and fostering alignment within her circle has been essential for long-term development.
Additionally, Aviella has ventured into areas such as DJing, expanding her artistry and audience connection. This willingness to learn and evolve exemplifies her commitment to growth, embracing challenges that push her into new territories.
### Creative Influences Beyond Music
Beyond music, Aviella draws inspiration from various elements, including atmosphere, memory, and nature. Conversations and experiences create a rich tapestry from which she pulls creative ideas. Nature serves as a vital source of inspiration, providing clarity and amplifying her thoughts. Interestingly, she also engages in a unique form of art using preserved insects, which reflects her desire to transform transient beauty into something enduring—a theme that resonates in her music as well.
### A Passion for Animals
Describing herself as an animal lover, Aviella’s home resembles a mini-zoo, with pets ranging from a Shar Pei-beagle mix named Squish to two enormous sibling grey cats, Pb and J. Even her hairless cat, Maraca, adds to the vibrant atmosphere. These pets serve as grounding forces in her busy life, keeping her present and connected. Fun fact: her father is currently babysitting a tarantula, a testament to Aviella’s eclectic taste in pets.
### Looking to the Future
Focused on a year of expansion, Aviella aims to build a world around her music that transcends typical releases. Her aspirations include not just new music but immersive experiences that emotionally connect with audiences. While specific dream collaborations may linger in her mind, she prioritizes alignment over fame. This year is poised to be transformative, with an ongoing commitment to deepening connections with fans and creatively evolving her presence in the music world.
Aviella’s journey paints a vibrant portrait of an artist deeply in tune with her craft, embracing both challenges and inspirations while looking ahead to a future filled with creative potential. Her story is one of continuous growth, intimate connections, and the unmistakable magic of music.
