Interview: Avatari
AVATARI is the solo project of musician, actor, and songwriter Ari Welkom. Ari spent several years fronting bands in Los Angeles, touring nationally, and playing major festivals including Outside Lands, Bonnaroo, Life is Beautiful, and SXSW. Many of his songs are also recognizable from their placements on primetime TV shows (Startup, Absentia). About a year ago Ari decided to hole up in the studio and focus on a sound that would better synthesize his creative expression. What came out was a group of songs that are both anthemic and personal. With epic pop hooks and grooves, and an alt rock edge. Songs about freedom, redemption, and empowerment, including his new single Raised at Night.
We had the pleasure of checking in with Avatari and he was kind enough to respond to a few interview questions.
Hi Avatari! Thanks for being here!
My pleasure, thanks so much for inviting me.
What has been the biggest "pinch me" moment of your career thus far?
I'd say it was when my debut song Legacy was licensed for a Rolls-Royce ad. Not only that, but I got to star in the ad. And not only that but my wife (who's an actress) starred in the ad opposite me. It was pretty cool. Definitely had to pinch myself a few times that day.
What could you give a 40-minute presentation on without any preparation beforehand?
Great question. A few things I guess. Karate - I've studied martial arts since I was five. Acting - along with music, I've been an actor most of my life. So I could probably whip something up on that front. Songwriting and performing - hopefully - I'm in no way a finished product, but I could definitely talk about making music for 40-minutes. Oh yeah, and being a dad. I have a three-year-old son. So I've got a ways to go. But I could talk to a bunch of people who were about to become parents for 40-minutes. I've got a lot to say.
Top 3 things on your bucket list...
Tour the world. Learn to surf. Take my family on a Hawaiian vacation.
Is there a song you would like to cover? If so, what song?
I'm gonna cheat. I'm going to choose a song I have covered. "Stand by Me" - the greatest love song of all time. I sang it to my wife-to-be at our wedding while my dad played guitar. It was pretty awesome.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I can be seriously goofy. Like out of nowhere. Does that count?
Oh yeah, and I speak French.
What is inspiring you right now?
Live Streams have been inspiring me. Especially during the pandemic. People still crave the release and the communal experience of the live show. Nothing can fully replace that, but I feel like live streams have been a great way to connect with fans while we can't be in the same room together.
Also, reconnecting with old friends. I think the physical disconnect from the pandemic has given me the opportunity to reach out and connect with people in my life that I care about, but have lost touch with over the years.
And, getting to see my son grow up. If it weren't for the pandemic, I might be on the road. But I'm getting to be present for this amazing part of his life. It's a blessing.
Please tell our readers how to stay up to date with you and your latest moves!
The best way is to follow me on IG -
https://www.instagram.com/avatariworld/
follow me on Facebook -
https://www.facebook.com/avatariworld
subscribe on YouTube -
https://www.youtube.com/avatari
And most importantly, join my mailing list -
