The timeline has been loud—and for good reason. ALARIE, sisters Alanna and Arielle Brown, have quickly become must-hear voices across social media, building a devoted audience through viral singing clips that blend raw talent, soul, and undeniable chemistry. What started as organic moments online has grown into a loyal fanbase that shows up every time—ready to like, share, and hoot and holler right along with them.
In an exclusive conversation, the rising duo opened up about the journey behind their viral success—from navigating social media attention to how their HBCU roots shaped their artistry. As they step into a new phase with original music and major opportunities, ALARIE is making one thing clear: this is bigger than a moment.
From viral moments to real artistry
Although ALARIE’s rise has been fueled by their viral and personality-driven content, the sisters say this current chapter is about shifting the focus toward their original music and long-term artistry. Their online presence highlights who they are, but their ambitions stretch far beyond the screen.
“Our personalities show up in our content, but our main goal is to become artists and songwriters,” Alanna explained.
That intentional pivot reflects a deeper vision. What started as spontaneous, personality-led content has opened the door to more serious opportunities, including bookings and performances that continue to elevate their platform. For the duo, viral success isn’t the destination—it’s simply the introduction.
Sisters by chance, best friends by choice
At the core of ALARIE’s appeal is their authenticity, rooted in a sister dynamic that audiences immediately recognize and connect with. Their chemistry isn’t curated—it’s something they’ve built over a lifetime.
Arielle describes their relationship as both honest and deeply intentional. “She is my best friend by choice,” she said, acknowledging that while sisterhood is automatic, their friendship is something they actively nurture.
That authenticity translates seamlessly into their work. While their journeys into music weren’t always aligned—Arielle had long been passionate about singing, while Alanna stepped into it more seriously later—those differences ultimately strengthened their foundation. Over time, they met in the middle, building a shared vision that would become ALARIE.
That dynamic resonates widely, particularly with audiences who see reflections of their own sibling relationships in the duo’s interactions. It’s that relatability—paired with undeniable talent—that continues to draw people in.
HBCU roots and artistic identity
HBCUs are known for leaving a lasting impact, and both sisters credit their experiences with shaping not only who they are as artists, but who they are as individuals.
Alanna is an alumna of Spelman College, where she initially pursued a pre-med track before finding her way back to music. Immersed in a campus environment rich with creativity, she says Spelman broadened her understanding of the arts and introduced her to new possibilities.
“I was always surrounded by theater, singers, dancers, and other creatives. I was always trying to find a way to be involved,” she said.
Arielle’s journey spans multiple HBCUs. She began at Virginia State University before completing her degree at North Carolina A&T State University, where she earned a degree in liberal studies and marketing—an academic background that now complements the duo’s growing brand and business strategy.
“It feels sweet to know that our community stands behind us 100 percent because we come from that same community,” she said.
Together, they view their HBCU experiences as foundational—spaces that planted the seeds for the confidence, creativity, and community support they carry into their careers today. That influence remains evident in how they move, create, and engage with their audience.
Navigating viral fame and connection
As their platform continues to grow, the sisters have had to adjust to the realities of being recognized both online and in everyday life. What once felt surprising has gradually become part of their normal experience.
“It’s a very interesting feeling,” Arielle said of being recognized in public. “We’re getting used to it, but it’s still surreal.”
For Alanna, one of the most meaningful aspects of their viral success is the depth of connection they’ve built with their audience. Whether it’s comments comparing them to sibling relationships or messages about how their music makes people feel, those moments reinforce their purpose.
“It truly touches my heart,” she said. “When people say, ‘This reminds me of me and my sister,’ that means everything.”
What started as spontaneous singing clips has since turned the sisters into viral sensations. Some of their most casual moments have taken on lives of their own, sparking trends and conversations across platforms. Still, even as their reach expands, they remain grounded—continuing to create content that feels authentic and true to who they are.
Breakthrough moments and industry recognition
That authenticity has opened doors to major opportunities, including a standout moment working with Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr. After catching attention online, the duo was able to collaborate with the singer—an experience that reinforced their belief in what’s possible.
“That moment showed me this dream is actually within reach,” Alanna said.
For Arielle, the collaboration felt naturally aligned—both creatively and energetically. It served as a reminder that their unique style and presence have a place within the broader music industry.
Moments like these represent more than milestones—they signal a shift from viral recognition to industry validation, positioning ALARIE as artists to watch.
Stepping onto bigger stages
Among their most surreal experiences so far has been performing the National Anthem at NBA games for the Charlotte Hornets and Atlanta Hawks. What made the moment even more special was that it marked the first time they performed the anthem publicly together.
“Being able to do it together is a different feeling,” Arielle said. “It was once my dream, and now it’s our dream.”
The opportunity with the Hornets came through a mix of connection and initiative, with the sisters actively reaching out and submitting their work. Their performance ultimately aligned with an HBCU-themed game, creating a full-circle moment that allowed them to represent both their talent and their roots on a national stage.
For Alanna, the experience reinforced the emotional impact of their music.
“When you can see how it affects somebody and how they feel when you’re singing—that’s what sticks with us,” she said.
Building a sound and a legacy
As ALARIE continues to make its mark, the duo is focused on defining a sound that feels uniquely their own. Blending elements of R&B, pop, and soul, they are intentional about creating music that reflects both their individuality and their shared identity.
“We’re creating our own genre,” Arielle said, emphasizing their desire to stand apart in both sound and style.
Their upcoming releases represent a deeper exploration of that vision—music that not only showcases their vocal ability but also tells a fuller story of who they are as artists.
Beyond the music, the sisters are equally focused on the legacy they hope to leave behind. For Alanna, that legacy is rooted in representation and possibility.
“I want people—especially young Black girls—to see that everything we embody is possible,” she said.
Arielle echoed that sentiment, emphasizing authenticity as the foundation of their message.
“I just want people to know that you can be yourself,” she said. “Even if you’re a little louder, a little different—you still belong in those rooms.”
A movement in the making
As ALARIE continues to grow its audience, the sisters remain grounded in what brought them here: authenticity, sisterhood, and a genuine love for music.
To keep up with their journey, follow the duo on Instagram and TikTok at @SoundsofALARIE, and tap in with them individually at @legendarie16 and @lannapalooza—because this is one story you don’t want to miss.
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