Often times, people will introduce themselves to their new neighbors by bringing over a plate of food. Grace Aimi’s formal introduction is a next-level feast though! Grace’s debut EP PICNIC has just arrived, and it’s bound to send you straight into a state of mind where you can envision yourself laying on a huge blanket in the park. Even though life might not always *be* a walk in the park, PICNIC is here to remind us that we can always find light in a dark situation.
Ready to get to know Grace Aimi a little better? Here’s what Grace had to say about PICNIC as well as the people and experiences that helped shape her into the artist she is today!
You mentioned you named this EP PICNIC since you wanted everyone to picture themselves hanging out in the sun with their friends, and basically enjoying life! How has music brought joy into your own life over the years?
Music has always been a part of my life and soul. I really don’t know what I would do without music. Through music I’ve been able to not only make myself happy but I also get to put a smile on other peoples faces, that’s what gives me the biggest happiness, knowing that my music is giving others joy.
Growing up in Okinawa, you were exposed to different musical genres as well as cultures. How has this played a role in shaping the artist you are today?
It’s helped me avoid any boxes that I could’ve put myself in. Everyday I wake up wanting to create music without having to think of what genre I fit into. Okinawa has shown me that it’s ok to be a bunch of different things in one body.
Your grandfather has been a significant figure in your life. What are a few things you’ve learned from him that you still carry with you today?
He taught to always look at every glass as half full. Life will never be perfect and sometimes it hurts like hell but if you keep a good attitude and believe in yourself, all will work out. One of his favorite sayings, of which he had so many, was, “You can’t cry over spilt milk.” Life is about making the best of things, seeing the best in things. My Grandpa will forever be my best teacher, inspiration and muse in my life.
As a teen, you launched a YouTube channel with your brother where you both posted fun covers of hit songs. Is your brother still involved with your music process today?
He’s quite the musician himself. He can play the acoustic and metal guitar, the bass, the ukulele…. he could make a car an instrument if he wanted to haha Even though our YouTube video uploads are very spontaneous and spread out all over the place, full of mistakes, we keep it going because it’s such a genuine platform and our fans through YouTube are the kindest people. Look forward to more of my music in the future and you’ll see him popping in and out. He’s one of my best friends in life!
Do you feel as though posting videos on YouTube helped prepare you for this chapter of your career?
I think it has helped me get used to having attention on me. Our YouTube channel was that little push that I needed to start walking towards my dreams. It’s fun to look back on all the videos we’ve done…makes us laugh actually, and it’s a good reminder for me to keep my lightheartedness about me.
How has working on PICNIC helped you grow as an artist?
I’ve grown as an artist and definitely as a person while making this EP. I now know that I have to power to help brighten someone’s day. With my projects I’m working on and through the making of PICNIC it’s made the road really clear for me and my goals are more vivid than ever.
What’s your absolute favorite song on PICNIC, and can you spill the story behind it?
Hmmmmm. That’s a hard question, but recently I’ve been bumping to FRIENDZONE the most. I wrote it in high school when a lot of my guy friends kept trying to be more than friends and at the time it stressed me out sooooo much. Like why can’t y’all just appreciate the friendship we already got??? 17 year old me was ranting hella. I even let one of my guy friends listen to it after I first recorded the song and he was a lil hurt but we had a great laugh. I think it’s a great song for anyone having to “friendzone” people.
How have you managed to maintain a positive mindset throughout the pandemic?
I’m lucky enough to have my family, friends and my island. We’re always there for each other and without them I know I wouldn’t be where I am today. My family is the source of my happiness and positive mindset. Having a good circle around you can make the darkest times seem a lot lighter.
If you could choose one song from the EP to play at your own picnic/cookout, which one would it be?
The Me right now says FRIENDZONE because it’s lighthearted, fun and has a jumpy beat that would be perfect for any party. But if I may be so forward…. ima need the whole package for my PICNIC.
Set some time aside today to stop and smell the roses. But of course, make sure you’re listening to PICNIC while you do so!
