By: Jason Phillips
Aybie Drori is a rising multi-instrumentalist, producer, and genre-blending singer-songwriter from New York. Her debut album is set to challenge and expand the boundaries of indie, jazz, and experimental pop. A self-driven creative force, Aybie reimagines what it means to be an independent artist by writing, producing, and performing every element of her music herself with soul, skill, and genuine authenticity.
Aybie is a 22-year-old instrumentalist and composer based in New York City. She recently graduated from Berklee College of Music, where she specialized in trumpet, piano, guitar, and singing, blending her diverse musical skills with a unique and original sound. The alternative pop artist is making her mark in spaces that have traditionally been dominated by male artists in jazz and production. Her debut album is a self-produced, self-written, and self-performed project, reflecting her dedication, leadership, and creativity.
Music has always been Aybie’s passion, and she learned early on what it felt like to face isolation. Often, she was the only woman in the room, but instead of yielding to the pressure, she used it as motivation to work harder and find her distinctive voice.
Breaking Societal Norms
Aybie excels at overcoming obstacles by building confidence through actions, trusting her instincts, and surrounding herself with mentors and collaborators who appreciate her for who she is. Her foundation in jazz performance and music education sets her apart from others in the industry. Her experience and passion for music are reflected in her work, which is rooted in the improvisational spirit of jazz, while also writing and producing across indie, alternative, and pop genres.
Navigating two musical worlds has given Aybie a valuable perspective. She studied music at Berklee and collaborates with a variety of artists, showcasing her broad musical abilities. The young jazz artist creates music from the “inside out,” not just singing and playing, but fully controlling the vision of her work.
Aybie comes from a musical background; her grandfather was a jazz singer, and the genre became an important part of her family dynamic. Her early influences include Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and John Coltrane. She recalls that these sounds shaped her earliest memories and left a lasting impact on her.
Career Highlights
Aybie’s dedication and talent have propelled her forward in a short amount of time. She received a full-tuition scholarship to Berklee College of Music and has won several notable performance awards. By managing every aspect of her career herself, she is able to tour extensively, perform with esteemed ensembles, and appear in national campaigns. She is a skilled live performer who often plays the trumpet, piano, and guitar, underscoring her commitment to artistic independence and personal authenticity.
Future Plans
Aybie’s goal is to build a sustainable and meaningful career as an artist, composer, and producer, with plans to release records and perform globally. She hopes her music will come alive visually, whether in intimate performances or at large festivals, helping her connect with a wide-ranging audience. She is also committed to using her platform to support greater representation in the music industry, particularly for women and artists from diverse backgrounds. Her debut album serves as a reflection of her overall philosophy and work ethic, blending her unique style with pure talent to give this jazz musician a distinctive voice.
