Narine Yeranosyan is a musician, songwriter and producer from Armenia. For her music is a universal language. Whether she's speaking, singing or playing, her goal is to always connect with people. In this interview she shares her inner musical world and talks about her experience as a singer in Armenia, as well as her future projects.
First of all, since it happened recently, what did you think about Ladaniva at Eurovision?
This song is about Jacklin, the vocalist of the group, and the name of the song from which Jacko comes. This song includes multicultural elements and I think that their performance has been unique in its own way, as it always happens with Ladaniva.
What’s a workday like for you?
I would say pretty interesting, as a musician I don’t have a specific routine that repeats itself but I always try to get better and work on my music.
You also worked at IMUSIC as a music content manager. How was it like?
IMUSIC is an Armenian music platform is similar to Spotify and Apple Music, it offers a wide range of genres. Additionally, it features Armenian old songs that can only be found in the Armenian Radio Archive (ARA). I managed all its content so I am always surrounded by music. The company could undertake more interesting projects but currently we lack them. I believe they are losing potential users who could help improve their app due to the suggested songs on social platforms.
When and why did you decide to work with music?
I was raised with music. My father has always been a singer and musician and he exposed me to many interesting songs from birth. I started singing as long as I can remember influenced by him and we've always listened to a lot of music at home. Over time, this led me to want to pursue it more professionally, so today I'm happy to be fully involved in it.
You are both a music industry professional and a singer so you have both points of view. How do you manage to conciliate these two aspects and do you think they influence each other?
I try to live the two realities as separate things so, at least for now, it's not a problem for me. However, at the same time, these are two jobs that are interconnected, so I'm always surrounded by music. This makes them very compatible.
Do you also produce your songs? If so, we noticed that in our countries female producers are rare. Does this also happen in Armenia?
Yes, I do. Female music producers are a rarity but they create some really interesting music. People should definitely discover them!
You also have a band. How is that experience?
I have band that called Yerevan band. Our goal is to revive the good old Yerevan music and vibes, sometimes presenting them in a contemporary way. We also want to make people discover some forgotten Western Armenian Rock’n Roll and Blues songs. Now I’m thinking of focusing on my natural soul songs. I don’t know when I will be able to present them but I’m working on it now.
What have you studied at university?
My educational background is completely different from music, I'm a theologian. However, I've never given up on my passion for music. I've always been involved in the music industry, participating in concerts, music workshops and competitions.
What are your favorite projects you worked on?
Tumo which is an innovation and creative center. I improve my arrangement skills there and I’ve participated in all musical programs (see her X Factor final gala performance here). Moreover, I enjoyed working on NVAK (which means music) that allows students to enhance their songwriting skills. Rosa Linn, who represented Armenia with her song Snap at the Eurovision Song Contest 2022, is also part of the NVAK family.
Have you ever noticed gender inequalities for women while working?
Personally, talking about my experience, I have never been discriminated or noticed inequalities while working.
Who are the artists that inspire you the most?
I have many, most of all Amy Winehouse, Jennifer Hudson, Selah Sue, Jessie Ware, Sade, Birdy, Noga Erez and Lola Marsh.
How would you describe the Armenian music industry?
I’d say that there are many talented musicians, some of whom aren't famous, yet they create very catchy music
How is it opportunities wise?
You must find the right people with whom you can work, who can improve your musical path. Nothing is easy, whether in Armenia or abroad. I don’t think those who want to work in music necessarily need to move abroad but for those to improve their skills being in other places might help.
What are your future projects?
I want to create and showcase my own songs. Right now, I'm considering which genre I would like to work on.
Do you have any suggestions for others who want to work in music?
Music is infinite for those who choose to work on it. It embodies philosophy, energy and emotions. If you've chosen this path, you're on the right track.
Do you have a song in your native language to suggest to our readers?
Yes! My cover called Vay Vay also known as Saren Kugayi. It is about being cheated on and I made an arrangement and presented it in my own style because the original one is by Komitas, the founder of Armenian national art music.
You can follow Narine here
You can follo Yerevan here
You can listen to our playlist with also her suggestion here
You can listen to Narine's cover of Vay Vay here: