In the ever-evolving world of music, there are artists who defy categorization and create a sound uniquely their own. Bailey Alexandra Hyneman, hailing from Memphis, TN, and currently based between Nashville and NYC, is one such artist. With her captivating melodies and powerful vocals, Bailey (@handleofbailey) is redefining genres and captivating listeners with her soulful tunes.
Bailey, known by her artist name “Bailey,” was inspired by her maternal grandmother’s maiden name. After experimenting with different variations, it was a night out at Canvas, a popular gay bar in Nashville, that led to her embracing the name. As she recalls to RemixdMag, “All night, the queens kept coming up to me saying my dark hair reminded them of Cher and that I had icon energy and I should just go by ‘Bailey.’ So, here we are!”
Get to know Bailey
Describing her sound can be a challenge, as Bailey’s music transcends conventional labels.
“For the longest time, even I had a hard time describing my sound,” she says. “I always had a hard time fitting in one chart, like a lot of industry execs would like for artists to. Which is understandable. It makes it easier to categorize you and easier for people to put you in their box. I don’t fall into straight Jazz, R&B, or pop. But my music is heavily influenced by 90’s R&B, Soul and Neo-Soul, and smooth Jazz.”
She seamlessly blends elements of 90s R&B, soul, neo-soul, and smooth jazz to create a unique sonic experience. Her music can be described as chill, sexy, smooth, and deeply evocative. Invoking a range of emotions that resonate with listeners.
For Bailey, music is not just a passion but a vital part of her existence. It has been a constant force in her life, grounding her and providing purpose. Drawing inspiration from a book on music appreciation, she explains, “The music that moves me and that I love most incorporates both groove and lyrics, which target your soul. It combines the soulfulness of soul music with the cerebral aspects of jazz. Music that can get you out of your head and in your body is what gets me excited about music.”
Musical influences
Bailey’s musical influences are diverse and encompass artists from various genres. From legendary figures such as Al Green, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, The Manhattans, and Barry White, to icons of punk and rock like Joan Jett and Janis Joplin, her early inspirations shaped her musical journey. In recent years, neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop have left a profound impact on her artistry. Bailey holds great admiration for musicians like Robert Glasper and dreams of collaborating with him. She also credits the likes of John Legend, Alicia Keys, Anthony Hamilton, Maxwell, and D’Angelo as significant influences.
Currently, Bailey is promoting her latest single, “You’re The One,” which just dropped today (May 26). The song is a heartfelt reflection on the complexities of relationships and the vulnerability of falling in love. She’s inspired by her personal experiences and those of her friends. The lyrics explore the disappointment of discovering that someone who broke down emotional barriers had ulterior motives or was not ready for commitment. Despite the disillusionment, Bailey believes that allowing oneself to fall in love, even in the face of unreciprocated feelings, is an act of bravery and should be celebrated.
Looking towards the future
Looking ahead, Bailey has exciting plans in store. She will be releasing another single in late July. On top of that, she is scheduled to perform at The Basement in Nashville on June 28th! She will be sharing the stage with the talented artist Em Chambers.
Through her music, Bailey hopes to make her listeners feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether her songs evoke happiness or heartbreak, she aims to provide a safe space where fans can find solace and connection. Bailey’s music carries a powerful message: you are not alone; you are safe and loved.
“Although my music is definitely really ‘in your feelings’ I hope it still makes you feel good,” she continues. “Whether the message is happy or heart breaking, I want people to know they have a safe place to go with me, and I’m always here.”
To stay updated on Bailey’s musical journey, you can follow her on Instagram here and discover more of her content on TikTok here.
