Alih Jey

Dominican singer-songwriter Alih Jey previously made two albums with Universal Music Latino before releasing her independent album Necia, which was nominated for Best Rock Solo Vocal Album for the 2008 Latin Grammys. Her newest album, Tarte, was released last May. Alih presently collaborates on many projects as a songwriter, placing songs on other singers' albums, while working on new music.

An interview with Alih:

Your music?

My music has been described by others as bright pop-rock with snarky lyrics. I just go through stages when I write, the stuff I'm working on right now is kind of mean and sarcastic, lyrically! Musically, I'm still deciding what direction to go in. It might have a retro/bluesy feel.

My first favorite rock song was "Mouth" by Bush and then Nirvana took over from there! Then PJ Harvey, The Beatles and The Smiths were amazing inspirations to me.

Growing up in a musical family was great training! I learned how to harmonize when I was three years old with my two older sisters. Also, it's easier to ask for advice and understanding regarding your career, when everyone in your family is a musician! One of my first memories of music was when I was three or four and was rehearsing a song while my dad played the piano.

Instruments?

There was always either a piano or a keyboard lying around the house while I was growing up. I learned to play piano a little when I was five, but I picked it up again at fourteen to accompany myself when I started writing songs. My dad gave me a guitar when I was sixteen. I had visited my cousin, who had a guitar, and tried to play a few chords. I loved it! I also loved that I could carry a guitar with me anywhere.

My musical education has been mostly informal. I learned how to play these instruments by ear. I did take music theory and vocal performance classes in college, but honestly, I'm not sure how much I use that training!

Songs?

I'm not sure why I wrote my first song at fourteen, I think I dreamt of it first and then put it down on paper. After that, music just flowed out of me. I've been changing and evolving since then. I guess there's always been an ingredient of angst to my lyrics! Lately though, my songs have a tinge of humor. My voice has matured with time too, playing live tends to do that to you.

Influences?

I love The Smiths' lyrics, PJ Harvey's aggressive, awesome style, The Beatles' everything! Rufus Wainwright has touched my heart so deeply. Lately I've been really inspired by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Tegan and Sara because it just sounds so refreshing to me. I also love Bjork, Lily Allen and Regina Spektor.

Places?

My favorite concerts have been in Chicago and San Francisco. The people there have so much energy and love live music so much! I can't wait to go back to both places.

Albums?

My albums have been Tarte (2011), Necia (2007), Gotas de Piel (2004), and Alih Jey (2001). The first two I recorded with Universal and Necia I released independently. Both experiences, being signed with a major label and being an independent artist, have been worth having.

I got to travel a lot and had some financial backup while with Universal, but I got total creative freedom and decision-making powers as an independent artist. It just depends on what you're willing to compromise on. I don't regret anything I've experienced or done in the past, because I wouldn't be who I am without it!

From my second to third album you can definitely hear a difference. My second album was extremely more poppy and commercial, while Necia had an "I don't care" factor, although I still consider the songs catchy, despite some people that didn't!

My English language debut album, Tarte, features songs that range from power pop to indie rock and Latin tinged alternative.

Miami?

Miami is full of talented singers and songwriters. There is no lack of that at all. We could probably improve our live music scene. There are lots of clubs and bars with cover bands, which are cool and very talented as well. But I think original music could use a little push in Miami, so that more people come out and check it out. I'd love to see Miami keep flourishing and evolving culturally and artistically.

Projects?

Recently I collaborated on Universal artist Janina's self-titled album. I'm very honored to have been part of the project. She is an excellent singer and a great person. I also recently co-wrote with Alex Cuba. We wrote an awesome song! I'm currently writing for other artists and writing for my next album too! I would love to one day meet The Tings Tings and collaborate with them. They rock! Also, I really admire Lily Allen and would love to one day work with her.

Alih Jey; www.myspace.com/alihjey.