SONGS OF HOPE

Imliakum Aier’s Path to Meaning

Akangjungla 
Dimapur | May 6

Imliakum Aier, a singer-songwriter from Dimapur and the frontman of the band The Electric Cool Kid, is a compelling storyteller whose music blends raw emotion with poetic depth. Unlike many artists, Imliakum discovered music later in life, driven by his love for words and a desire to give them melody. His journey, from writing to crafting soul-stirring songs, reflects a deep commitment to authenticity. Drawing inspiration from personal struggles, faith and lyrical icons like Bob Dylan and Alex Turner, his music carries a signature blend of vulnerability and hope.

A Naga artist’s journey of sound and soul where every song spells H.O.P.E.

Currently working on his debut solo album, Imliakum embraces both the chaos and discipline of creativity, crafting songs that resonate with listeners on a profound level. Whether in the introspective space of the studio or the electric energy of live performances, his art remains rooted in honesty. As a proud voice in Nagaland’s thriving music scene, he aspires to create timeless music that connects, heals and endures. For Imliakum, success is not about fame, it is about meaning.

In this exclusive conversation with The Morung Express, this Naga artist takes us through his journey as an artist, his reflections on music as an art, the music industry in Nagaland and many more.  

Finding Voice in Music
For Imliakum, music began not in childhood but as a natural extension of a lifelong love for words and storytelling. “I did not grow up in a musical family, and I did not have many musician friends around me either,” he shared. “But I have always been drawn to words and imagery; I loved writing. Looking back now, I realise it was my passion for writing that eventually led me to music. It became a way to bring those words to life, to give them melody and emotion.”

What started as a creative exploration has now evolved into a years-long journey, culminating in an exciting new chapter as the artist is currently in the studio working on his debut solo album, set for release by the end of the year. “That in itself feels like a big turning point for me,” he admitted. “It’s exciting, and a little scary.”

When asked what drew him to music, the artist explained, “Music has always been a profound means of expression for me, and I wanted to share my own stories and experiences through it.”

His influences are deeply rooted in faith, lived experiences, and the world around them. “The stories I have lived and witnessed and my relationship with God all play a huge role in shaping what I write,” he said.

Faith, Life & Lyrics
The artist credits his creative foundation to three key elements. “The biggest influences on my music come from a blend of personal experiences, my faith and the world around me. The stories I have lived and witnessed and my relationship with God all play a huge role in shaping what I write and how I express it.”

He specifically acknowledged the impact of lyricists like Bob Dylan and Alex Turner. “There’s something about the way they craft words and paint vivid pictures with their lyrics that has really influenced how I approach songwriting. Their ability to be both poetic and raw has definitely shaped the way I try to tell my own stories.”

What distinguishes Imliakum's work is its unfiltered honesty. “I think what might be considered original in my music is simply the honesty behind it,” he explained, emphasising that his creative process is deeply personal rather than audience-driven. “When I try to create something just because I think people might like it, it ends up feeling inauthentic. So, I try to stay true to myself and write what feels real.”

While many songs originate in challenging experiences and a lot of Imliakum’s songs are born out of brokenness; moments when he felt lost, uncertain, or just trying to make sense of life, they ultimately carry a message of resilience. “If I had to choose one word to describe them, it would be hope,” he stated, describing his music as meeting listeners in their struggles while pointing toward healing.

The artist expressed profound gratitude for this connection. “If my music can offer even a small sense of that to someone, then I am deeply grateful.”

From Gibberish to Genius
Imliakum peeled back the curtain on his songwriting approach, describing a method that balances structure with creative spontaneity.

“My creative process is a bit messy, but it has its rhythm,” he confessed. The artist revealed he constantly captures melodic ideas on his phone, “just la la las and bits of gibberish” building a library of potential songs. When inspiration strikes, he matches these melodies to lyrical concepts, though he admits each song follows its own timeline, “Some come together in 10 or 15 minutes, and others take years. I have one I still haven’t finished after 7 or 8 years.”

For Imliakum, songs begin as emotional sparks rather than calculated creations. “The ideas usually start with a feeling, something I am going through or something I have observed in others,” he shared. 

This organic approach extends to his studio versus live performance dynamic. “In the studio, it is very personal and introspective,” he noted, contrasting this with the communal energy of concerts where songs take on new life. “When I play live, those same songs take on a new life. They are no longer just mine; they belong to the people listening. I think the studio is where I process things, and the stage is where I release them. Both are deeply meaningful in different ways.”

The artist sees close link between improvisation and composition, and vital to his craft, explaining how stage performances can often reveal new dimensions that eventually influence studio work. “Improvisation keeps the music alive. It allows the composition to keep evolving,” he reflected.

When asked about his artistic philosophy, Imliakum described music as more vocation than career. “It is more of a calling.” His ultimate goal is to create work that “can bring something meaningful into the world, even if it is small.”

Real Music, Raw Truth
Imliakum reveals the guiding principles behind his music. “As an artist, honesty is at the core of everything I do,” he stated, emphasising his commitment to authentic creation. “I believe in creating music that is real, music that comes from a genuine place, even if it is messy or vulnerable.” The singer-songwriter credits his faith as a grounding force, “it keeps me grounded and reminds me that my gift isn’t just for me.”

While lacking formal mentors, Imliakum acknowledges influential artists and a supportive personal circle that provides crucial feedback. “I am also incredibly lucky to have a circle of supportive family and friends who, in many ways, play a mentoring role in my life. They keep me grounded, encourage me, and most importantly, they are honest with me, even when it’s not easy to hear,” he shared.

‘This Is Our Time’
Imliakum shared his personal battles with creative insecurity while painting an optimistic picture of Nagaland’s music scene.

“One of the biggest challenges for me has been self-doubt,” the singer-songwriter admitted. “Questioning whether my music is good enough, or if what I'm creating really matters.” He described his coping mechanism, “I remind myself why I started, not for validation, but because it's how I process life and connect with others.” The artist credits his faith and close circle for keeping him grounded during difficult moments.

Turning to the music industry in Nagaland, Imliakum observed, “I think the music industry in Nagaland is in such an exciting place right now.” He paid tribute to trailblazers who paved the way, noting their perseverance “even when support or platforms weren't there.” With visible passion, he asserted, “I truly believe this is our time. The possibilities feel limitless… I feel hopeful and proud to be part of this growing movement.”

However, the emerging star did not shy from constructive criticism. While acknowledging he is “not in a position to give definitive answers,” he observed, “I would love to see more of a shift in mindset.” Emphasising the need for professional growth, he urged fellow artists to focus on “honing our craft, investing in quality production, and developing a strong work ethic” rather than waiting for opportunities. 

“At times we get too comfortable,” Imliakum reflected. “The potential here is huge, but it requires personal responsibility to make the most of it.”

Stop Waiting, Start Creating
For Imliakum, the greatest reward of creating music lies in its impact. “The most satisfying part of being an artist is when your song speaks to someone else,” he shared. “It’s humbling to hear how a song has resonated or helped someone through a tough time. Those testimonies remind me why I love doing this.”

Looking beyond the present, Imliakum envisions music as a timeless force. “I want to write music that will stand the test of time,” he explained. “Music, at its core, is about connecting people and sharing stories, no matter when or where they are heard. My vision is to create songs that resonate not just in the moment, but years down the line. I believe music should evolve, but its ability to touch hearts and move people should always remain.”

“The ultimate dream for my music is that it continues to bring hope to people, wherever they are, whatever they’re going through. I want my songs to matter, not just in terms of numbers or recognition, but in how they make someone feel seen, understood or less alone,” he expressed. 

Imliakum hopes to keep growing as a songwriter and to reach wider audiences, play bigger stages, but always with the same heart and honesty he started with. “And if my music can stand the test of time and still speak to someone years from now, that would mean everything to me,”

For aspiring artists, Imliakum emphasised work ethic and discipline. “Work ethic and discipline are just as important as inspiration. Try to find your own rhythm, your own process, what I call the ‘method to the madness.’ Don’t wait for the perfect moment or emotion to strike. Create space for consistency, learn your craft, and keep showing up even when it is hard.