Bell’s Roar is a solo project created by Sean Desiree whose name is inspired by the feminist writer bell hooks. Her single Slow (Remix) was released shortly before her second album, Second Chances Vol. I which saw its debut this month. Her goal was to show a tender and intimate portrayal of love as the lives of queer people of color are rarely seen in such a personal and normalized way. It’s the first single released on Firebrand Records, the new record label started by Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine. I had the lucky opportunity to ask her more about this project below.
“That’s why I made this video for Slow (Remix). I wanted to show a honest and simple portrayal of QPOC love.”
When and why did bell’s roar begin?
I wanted to make music on my own to see through to my vision. Being in a band is amazing and something I want in my life again, but I wanted to hear what just me sounded like. That’s why I began bell’s roar in 2011. Most of the time leading up to now has been me teaching myself how to produce independently and creating music I can stand behind. The release of my debut EP in 2014 really marks the start of my solo project to me.
How did you become involved with Firebrand Records?
I met Ryan Harvey, who is the co-founder of Firebrand Records when I was a member of the band, Broadcast Live. After the band ended Victorio Reyes, who was a member of the band and myself stayed in touch with Ryan. Once the label was starting to come together and Ryan was looking for acts to sign, Victorio told him about my solo project. After many conversations and trusting the intentions of Ryan and Tom Morello I knew I wanted to be involved. It’s more of a political artists collective than a typical label.
What do you find the most frustrating about mainstream portrayal of poc lives?
That poc often aren’t in the writers room. Our stories are being written without us. You’re going to get the story wrong if you don’t have the group you’re talking about present. Our lives are often narrow without much development. Often used as an accessory to the main character. That’s why I made this video for Slow (Remix). I wanted to show a honest and simple portrayal of QPOC love.
What is the story behind Slow? Why was the creation of this video important to you?
It’s important to see images of queer, especially QPOC in a normalized way. I put it on myself to create what I think is missing within the music industry. I want to see myself reflexed and I deserve to be here. I see it as political to claim and speak about queer love. My partner Alisa Sikelianos-Cater came up with the idea. It’s intimate and real. I filmed and edited the video myself in one day.
Are there specific themes you are drawn to explore?
I draw on myself. Music is a way for me to make sense of my experiences and observations. I’m a radical feminist that fights for social justice and I want to convey that in my music.
Can you tell us a bit about what to expect from your recent album?
Simply to keep reaching and connecting with people through my music. I would have never traveled to as many places and met people I share a common identity with. It’s a gift to be able to express myself. I hope I’m bringing art to the world that resonates with people.
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For additional information please visit bellsroar.tumblr.com
