Arilena Ara’s latest single, “Weightless,” is a soul-stirring ballad that showcases the internationally acclaimed artist’s powerful vocals and emotional depth. Written by legendary songwriter Diane Warren and produced by Grammy-winner Mikal Blue, the track marks a significant milestone: Arilena’s official debut in the U.S. market.

Already a superstar in Albania and across Europe, Arilena Ara has built a career on passion, persistence, and a voice that refuses to be ignored. From winning X Factor Albania as a teen to topping international charts with her hit “Nentori,” she’s now poised to join the ranks of global Albanian icons like Dua Lipa and Bebe Rexha. 

In our conversation, Arilena opened up about her journey from talent competitions in Tirana to recording in Los Angeles, the moment Diane Warren told her she saw herself in her, and what it means to finally bring her music to a global stage.

For listeners discovering you for the first time, how would you introduce yourself in your own words?

I’ve always felt like music found me before I even understood what it meant to have a dream. I knew I was born to be a performer — there was never really a plan B.  It’s been my way of expressing emotions that words alone could never carry. My journey has taken me from singing in my hometown to performing on international stages, and through it all, I’ve stayed passionate, persistent, and fully connected to the music. I pour my whole heart into every note. “Weightless” is a piece of that heart , and I’m so excited to finally share it with the world.

You started performing at age five, then went on to win X Factor Albania at just 14 —what do you remember most about those early days on stage? How has your relationship with music changed as you’ve grown up?

I remember everything from those early days, just like it happened yesterday — that rush of adrenaline mixed with pure joy. I think that feeling defines who I’ve become. I didn’t fully understand the scale of what I was doing at the time, I just knew that when I stepped on stage, I felt alive. I was fearless in a way only a kid can be. As I’ve grown, my relationship with music has only deepened. I’ve lived more, felt more, and learned to be even more intentional with my voice. Now, every lyric, every performance comes from a real place. I still have that same fire I had at 14, but now it burns with more purpose, more perspective, and a greater understanding of the power music has to connect and heal.

Did you immediately know ‘Weightless’ was your song when you heard it, or did it take time to connect?

The moment I heard “Weightless” I felt something powerful and unmistakable. Diane Warren’s songwriting is incredible, the emotion and honesty in the lyrics spoke directly to my heart. It was like hearing a story that was already mine to tell, even though I hadn’t lived it all yet. It didn’t take long to connect because the song captures vulnerability and strength in a way that truly resonates with me.

What has it been like working with the amazing Diane Warren? We hear you’re currently recording your debut EP with her.

Working with Diane has been a truly inspiring experience. She’s like a mirror, reflecting everything I want to express through my music. Her gift for storytelling and deep connection to emotion have opened new doors for me creatively. Right now, we’re focused on the EP, and I’m so grateful to have her by my side as I take this next step in my career.

Diane Warren has written for icons—how did she coach or challenge you in the studio?

Diane’s presence in the studio is electric — she inspires you to reach beyond what you thought was possible. It was always “go big or go home” with her, pushing me to find new depths in my voice. She believes in the power of music to move people, and that belief challenged me to bring my absolute best every single time. Working with her wasn’t just about impressing a legend — it was about unlocking a new level of artistry. Her guidance helped me realize that true power in music comes from embracing your vulnerability and letting your soul sing.

Is there a lyric in ‘Weightless’ that hits you differently now than when you first recorded it? 

Yes, the line “To the stars, so far” really hits me differently now. It is my favorite line. When I first recorded it, it felt like a hopeful dream, something distant but worth reaching for. Now, it feels more like a reminder of the journey I’m on, and how those stars aren’t as far away as they once seemed. It’s a beautiful symbol of growth, hope, and the belief that anything is possible.

Do you feel a different kind of connection with a song when you perform it live vs. in the studio?

Absolutely! Performing live lifts the song to a whole new dimension — it’s where I truly come alive. I feel the music flowing through every vein, every breath, weaving a powerful, unforgettable connection with the audience. There’s always a percentage of my energy I reserve just for the live moment, something special I keep back to make the song even more magical. I can’t wait to sing “Weightless” live, hopefully very soon, with Diane playing piano beside me. That’s honestly my deepest wish, to share that moment with her and the fans.

Do you think your global background gives you a unique edge or voice in pop music today?

I think so, yes. I feel my global background is more like a quiet superpower. It helps me stay authentic and brings a unique perspective to my music. It shapes the way I connect with stories and emotions, allowing me to create songs that hopefully resonate across cultures and borders.

Now that you’re introducing your music to a new audience, has it made you reflect differently on the kind of artist you want to be?

Definitely. I want to stay true to myself and pour everything I’ve lived and felt into my music. Sharing my music with a new audience has deepened my desire to be honest and open, to let my story unfold in its purest form. I’m excited to grow as an artist but always remain rooted in authenticity.

Your debut EP drops later this year. Are there any plans to tour or perform live around the release?

I can’t confirm any tour dates yet, but I’m pouring my heart into finishing my debut EP. There’s also an exciting collaboration in the works that I can’t wait to share soon. Performing live is definitely something I’m looking forward to, and I hope to connect with fans in person as soon as possible.

If you could shoot your shot with anyone for a collab, who’s on your dream list?

If I could collaborate with anyone, it would be Celine Dion. Her voice carries a timeless beauty and a depth of emotion that moves the soul. She’s a true legend, and the chance to create something unforgettable alongside her, to blend our stories and hearts in a song that lasts forever — would be an incredible honor.