Pop singer Arilena Ara chatted about her new single “Weightless,” and about working with Honorary Oscar winner Diane Warren.
How did “Weightless” come about?
“Weightless” came to me through the one and only Diane Warren, and I honestly felt so lucky the moment I heard it. I immediately felt its emotional depth — it spoke to something both deeply personal and universal.
It just connected with me on every level. It felt like the natural next step to introduce my music to the U.S. audience, and I’m so proud to share this part of my journey through such a powerful song.
What was it like working with Diane Warren?
Working with Diane Warren has been the trip of a lifetime! I still can’t believe she picked me to sing one of her favorite songs she has ever written.
She is not just a legendary songwriter — she’s also incredibly inspiring and passionate about music. Being around her energy really pushed me to bring my best to the song.
It’s honestly an experience I’ll never forget, and I’ll always be humbled and grateful to her for believing in me.
What inspires your music and songwriting?
Inspiration for me comes from everywhere, the little moments in everyday life, the thoughts swirling in my mind, and the feelings I sometimes can’t put into words.
I have a vivid imagination, and I love turning those fantasies and personal emotions into lyrics.
Stories from my own life and the experiences of others also play a big role. I aim to capture honest, relatable emotions in my music that connect with people on a deeper level.
What do your plans for the future include?
Right now, I’m so excited to be working on an EP with Diane Warren. Honestly it’s a dream come true to create music alongside someone I admire so much.
We also have a duet with an incredible international artist lined up, which is going to be amazing.
My goal is to keep making music that touches people’s hearts and to continue evolving as an artist while staying authentic.
How does it feel to be an artist in the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
Whether we like it or not, it’s a whole new world out there. With streaming, tech, and social media, it’s way easier to get your music out to people all over the globe.
I love how music can connect us and speak a universal language that breaks down borders.
At the same time, there’s so much content everywhere, so standing out can be tough. For me, it’s both exciting and challenging — a new kind of journey to navigate, but one full of possibilities.
What is your advice for young and emerging artists?
Honestly, my biggest advice is to just be yourself and be patient. The music world can be tough and sometimes things don’t happen overnight, but if you keep working hard, improving your craft, and staying true to your own voice, people will start to notice.
Don’t be scared to take risks or make mistakes — I’ve learned so much from every experience along the way.
Always remember why you started making music in the first place, because that passion is what will keep you going no matter what.
What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question)
Success, to me, isn’t just about “fame” or “awards.” Ever since I was a little girl singing on stage at just six years old, I never wanted to be “famous” — that was never my goal.
I’ve always wanted to be successful. Fame can go away quickly, but success is what truly defines who you are.
To me, success is more than flashing lights or recognition; it’s the quiet strength that comes from hard work, discipline, and staying dedicated.
It’s not something that happens overnight, but grows over the years, shaped by every challenge and every moment you put your heart into what you do.
Success is the fulfillment you feel when you’re pursuing what you love and keep moving forward.
What would you like to tell our readers about your new music? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it)
I’m so excited to finally share Weightless with the world — it’s out now, and it’s a song that means a lot to me. It’s about finding freedom in letting go, and the strength that can come from being vulnerable.
I hope it feels like a deep breath for anyone who’s been carrying something heavy.
This song is just the beginning. My upcoming music explores a mix of emotions, not every track sounds like Weightless, but they all come from a real place.
The project is all about authenticity, honest love, and the kind of emotions we all feel but don’t always say out loud.
With “Weightless” and the rest of the EP, I hope to connect with people on a deeper level whether they’re celebrating, healing, or simply feeling.
My goal is to create music that speaks to the heart and reminds listeners that they’re not alone in what they feel.
“Weightless” is available on digital service providers by clicking here.
To learn more about pop artist Arilena Ara, follow her on Instagram.
