Today we’d like to introduce you to Aimmê Harris.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
It all started when I was in Pre-K. We had these huge wooden blocks, and they were my favorite to play with. I would set up my own little stage and “perform” in front of my classmates. I’d tell them to sit down at the end of “my stage” and listen to me sing, which usually was something by Britney Spears or TLC. From there, I would be in every school play from kindergarten through ninth grade. I played the viola in philharmonic orchestra in high school, and I also picked up the guitar. When I started playing the guitar, that’s when it all made sense; I was made for this. How did I start playing, you ask?
Well, I was in a flea market in Elkhart, Indiana with my grandmother, and I saw a little pink guitar in a shop window. I wasn’t leaving that flee market without it. I told my grandmother I wanted it. I actually told her I needed it. Her reply was, “Well, can you play it? I’m not gonna get it for you unless you can play it.” I had watched plenty of people play the guitar and had seen plenty of movies and videos. How hard could it be? So, I said, “Yes. I can play it.” I lied. I didn’t even begin to know the first thing about playing guitar… or so I thought.
I’m not one to think through something fully, so I had no idea what was coming next. My grandmother asked the sales lady to take it out of the sales window. The sales lady then handed it to me, and my grandmother said, “now play it.” I stared at the sales lady, looked at my grandmother, then back at the saleslady. I took a deep breath and, as God as my witness, I started playing the guitar. Strumming full chords. First “C.” Then “G.” Then “Em.” Mind you, at this point in my life, I had no idea what chords I was playing. I just knew they sounded good! My mother was now in a little shop and was surprised. “When did you start playing the guitar?!” “Well… right now, I guess,” I said.
And that was when I knew I had a God-given gift.
From the age of 13 up until today, I have been leading worship in several different churches. I have performed original music at event venues, restaurants, and bars all around the Atlanta area. In fact, one of my favorite places to play and is “home” to me is Tin Roof Cantina off of Briarcliff Road. I was the series 22 winner of their Songwriters Acoustic Showdown, and I’ve made many friends from those competitions.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. My biggest struggle this far has been my own insecurities. I’ve let them hold me back for way too long, which eventually cost me friendships and opportunities to further my career. I am proud to say that now, at the age of 24, I am much better and more confident in myself, my gifts, and my skills. I had to learn to believe in myself. No one can believe in you more than you believe in yourself.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a singer, songwriter, musician, and I also dabble in producing. My main instrument is the acoustic guitar, but I play the electric and bass guitars as well. I think the factor that sets me apart from everyone is my voice and stage presence. I describe my voice as a “locally brewed melting pot of Atlanta music!” I have a very unique voice, and I promise to have you out of your seat and singing by the end of my set!
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
My proudest moment thus far was having the opportunity to open for Lalah Hathaway at Center Stage. That whole day, from the time I woke up to the time I laid my head on my pillow at two o’clock in the morning, was a dream. She and her team instantly made my family and I feel like a part of her family. She was so down-to-earth and was super encouraging backstage before I went on. She’s incredible!
Contact Info:
- Email: isthataimme@gmail.com
- Instagram: @isthataimme
- Facebook: @isthataimme
Image Credit:
Ed Lee, Omari Joseph
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