- Words Joe Beer
Sabriel shares her musical firsts with Notion, from the first song she ever wrote, to when Blake Anderson slid into her DM’s.
Las Vegas singer, songwriter and producer Sabriel, (pronounced shä brē el) has just unveiled her stunning new single “Yellow” ahead of her upcoming EP.
Known for her buttery vocals and hypnotic, synth-laden releases, her music touches on some of her most personal and vulnerable moments, with “Yellow” in particular narrating her first time exploring a relationship with a woman, after leaving a toxic experience with a man. The intimate song showcases the artist’s ability to transport listeners to another dimension, as unfamiliar, exotic sounds whip you into a whirlwind, opening your eyes and ears to new adventures. With both the sound and subject of the song following a similar theme, Sabriel encourages you to take a deep dive into undiscovered territories and soak up the euphoric feeling of something new and refreshing.
Following a slew of releases this year, Sabriel has been steadily building a shimmering plethora of singles, all of which captivate the listener with her very first note. It’s easy to be swept away by her neo-soul soundscapes and even easier to find comfort in her honest lyrics.
Sabriel lets us in on her musical firsts – from her infatuation with Britney Spears, to her desire to meet Stevie Wonder.
First song you ever made?
The first song I ever made was called MUYM (make up your mind). I was in high school & was clearly feeling some feels. Most likely about some clueless boy that I had way too serious of a crush on.
First song you released officially?
Welp, the first song I released officially was MUYM, and even then I don’t think it clicked for the person it was about.
First CD or record you owned?
100% a Britney Spears album. I was exclusively a Britney kid and refused to step outside that box.
First time you realised you wanted to be an artist?
I feel like I slowly progressed into becoming an artist. I was a dancer from the age of 3, so naturally, I started making art and performing at a young age. But, I do remember there being a birthday where I blew out the candles and wished to “be a singer like Britney Spears.” Lil cutie.
First gig and first festival you went to? And the first festival you performed at?
Officially, the first concert I went to was a smooth jazz saxophonist (lol). I was 2 months old. So, I consider my actual first concert to be… drum roll… Britney Spears.
The first festival I went to was Life is Beautiful! It was also the first festival I ever performed at!
First time one of your dreams came true?
I think my first time playing a festival was pretty dreamy for me. But also, one time Blake Anderson responded to my DM. Hard to pick, really.
First instrument you owned?
The first instrument I ever owned is my Rhodes that was passed down to me from my dad. I still play that bad boy as much as I can.
First time you felt like giving up?
Damn. We’re going there. There was a point a couple years ago when I was working with players that were so sexist and calloused. After a stressful show, I decided I couldn’t work with people like that anymore. I was almost convinced that everyone in the industry was going to be like that & I was really scared. I decided I was going to start doing everything myself, despite not having much experience producing and performing on my own. It was scary at the moment & I wanted to give up, but I’m so glad things went down that way, because now I am where I am!
First time you felt starstruck?
I’m still waiting for the day! I’ll let you know when I meet Stevie Wonder.
First time you heard your song playing somewhere? i.e. on the radio, a shop, someone’s Spotify playlist.
I was eating at a pho restaurant a few years ago & heard something familiar playing. At first it didn’t cross my mind that it was my song. Then I looked up and saw the host grinning at me. It was such a cute and wholesome moment.