Meskarim Mies emerges as a captivating figure in the contemporary music landscape, her journey reflecting the complexities of artistic identity in today's world. This episode delves into her remarkable ascent from her Ethiopian origins to becoming a notable name in the European music scene. We explore her artistic achievements, including her critically acclaimed debut album and subsequent collaborations, emphasizing the duality of success and the inherent challenges of maintaining creativity under pressure. In a candid discussion, we address her recent reflections on the toll of relentless ambition and the significance of mental health in the arts. Ultimately, we aim to unravel the intricate balance between individual expression and collective contribution, shedding light on the profound implications for artists navigating their careers in an increasingly demanding environment.

Who is

Welcome to StagVibes, where we spotlight the artists who speak softly but leave a deep echo.

Today’s guest is Meskerem Mees, the Belgian-Ethiopian singer-songwriter whose acoustic sound cuts through the noise of modern music with nothing but a guitar, a cello, and her voice.

She captured hearts with her debut single “Joe”, and has since become one of the most authentic and refreshing voices in the European folk scene. Winning awards like the Montreux Jazz Talent Award and Music Moves Europe, she’s proof that less can truly be more.

In this episode, we talk about poetry, silence, identity, and how Meskerem turns quiet thoughts into timeless songs. From village stages to international festivals, she’s bringing folk music back to its raw, human roots.

This is Meskerem Mees — gentle, grounded, and undeniably powerful.

The exploration of Meskarim Mies provides a profound insight into the intricacies of contemporary artistry within the modern music landscape. Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and later adopted into Belgium, Mies's journey embodies a narrative of resilience and transformation. The discussion delves deeply into her artistic evolution, which is marked by a distinctive minimalist sound that resonates powerfully with audiences. Her debut single, 'Joe', which achieved remarkable success, is dissected not merely as a musical piece but as a reflection of her unique artistic identity. The podcast scrutinizes the complexities of her rapid ascent in the music industry, juxtaposing her accolades with the underlying struggles faced by artists in the limelight. The conversation presents a balanced view, acknowledging the exhilarating highs of success while also confronting the often-overlooked mental and emotional toll that accompanies such a demanding career. Through this nuanced narrative, we witness not only an artist's rise but also the profound implications of creative pressures that challenge the sustainability of artistic endeavors.

Takeaways:

• The podcast delves into the multifaceted journey of Meskarem Mies, exploring her unique origins and artistic evolution.
• Listeners will gain insight into the challenges and pressures that accompany a successful creative career in today's competitive landscape.
• Mies's story exemplifies the balance between artistic ambition and the personal toll that such a journey can entail.
• The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration and the potential liberation found in contributing to a collective vision rather than solely individual achievement.
• Her experiences illustrate a profound understanding of the connection between personal identity and creative expression, especially under pressure.
• Ultimately, the episode poses significant questions about maintaining well-being while pursuing excellence in the arts.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Meskarem Mies
• Junior Brahim
• Humo's Rock Rally
• Montreux Jazz
• Music Moves Europe
• Kongiesen
• Jean Marie Art
• Carlos Garbin
• Anne Theresa de Keersmaker
• Robert Johnson
• Exit Above
• Volksoper
• Festival de Vignan
• Berliner Festspiel
• Opergant de Cingel Theater