SIMPLY SIX: Ariane Mahryke Lemire

Ariane Mahryke Lemire is a singer/songwriter from Edmonton, Alberta Canada.

1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?

There was no particular defining moment. I started making up songs as soon as I could talk and later put on recitals and plays along with my cousins that lasted much too long. I decided I was going to be a writer after reading "Anne of Green Gables" when I was about 12...I had forgotten about the music. It came again, later, when someone asked to use some of my poetry to put to music. When I went to the concert and heard how my writing had been butchered, I decided that I would be doing to composing and singing from then on.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

Dad was a classical guitarist so there was always something playing on the jukebox or the stereo. My standard go-to s are the 60's classics (everything pop to Jimi, Janis, Jethro, King Crimson...). Other staples: Joni Mitchell, Tori Amos, Ricki Lee Jones, Tom Waits, Ryan Adams, Djavan, French singer-songwriters, and then there are the up and comers: Eamon McGrath, Andrea Lindsay, Geneviève Toupin, Scott Cook, Derek Frank, Madame Moustache, Joe Nolan...the list goes on and on and on...

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

The circus that is producing TWO albums at once! It's almost over, they're almost finished, and it's been one heck of a ride. From picking the songs to organising the recording sessions, to handling the budgets (and lack of budget), working out the arrangements, and the absolute thrill of seeing it all come together.

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

Music has always played an imperative roll in society. It used to be a way to transmit news from village to village, to transmit heritage and tradition from generation to generation. It can soothe or torture...Governments have used music to influence the population: rally songs, party songs, jingles...anthems. Music plays a powerful roll in triggering emotions. Just as it can put a baby to sleep, it can compel a group to battle. My 87 year old great uncle told me being an entertainer was as important to the a society as a bus driver, a lawyer, a teacher or a loaf of bread. He says that for many people, seeing a play, a movie, or going to a concert makes the rest of the week worth living.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology, its accessibility and relatively low cost, has allowed pretty much anyone to make their music accessible to the masses in one form or another. It's the doubled edged sword. On one hand, there is an increase in people listening to a larger variety of styles, languages, etc.. Labels and the music industry are no longer dictating what we listen to. Music can have a global reach much faster. The resourceful can make a career of what they love doing. On the down-side, it is becoming increasingly difficult to create a long lasting bond between the listener and the creator. Everyone is constantly bombarded with a plethora of new artists. Then again, this could also be a good thing since it pushes us to work harder at upping the quality, originality, and honesty of what we put out. I guess what I'm trying to say, in regards to that question is.....?.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

If I were a pair of shoes...I'd have to be some weird cross-breed of spiked heels, skate shoes, flip-flops, and mid-calf boots.