You seem to be in-between two cultures, the Lebanese and the Canadian, can you tell us what each gave you?
What an interesting question to begin with! I can truly say it has been an enriching experience for me. Of course I carry my roots everywhere. Thanks to Lebanese musical traditions & the importance of community I was able to channel my creativity. From Canada, I gained exposure to a diverse multicultural environment and explored new sounds and styles.
This dualism gave me a unique perspective to blend influences into my music, making my voice more meaningful. And here I am today, performing in the most amazing multicultural city that combines tradition and modernity: Dubai.
Also how do you think being bi-cultural affected your singing?
Singing is about expressing emotions. And we already know that music is a universal language. I personally think that carrying a double culture in my voice conveys different narratives and range of emotions. And this appeals to sensitive audiences from different backgrounds. A lot of artists carry multicultural indentities in their voice. I am happy to be one of them.
You seem not sticking to one genre, and yet all of them converge in you, how does this happen?
True. My music reflects two of my main traits. My willingness to experiment & create a unique musical identity where various genres converge. And also my ability to adapt, evolve, and draw inspiration from a wide range of influences. Expressing these two traits in my music is my truthful and passionate approach.
For many, some like Fairouz and the Rahbanis are sacrosanct, yet you manage to reinterpret them? How did this happen, and have any purists tried to challenge your view?
Reinterpreting iconic artists like Fairouz and the Rahbanis comes from a deep respect for their music and a desire to experience their timeless heritage. This is why I do it with innovative ways while honoring its spirit.
As for purists challenging my view, it’s so natural and healthy to be challenged in the creative world.
What is most important is that the reinterpretation is a bridge connecting the past & the present, enriching the cultural conversation rather than replacing it.
The fact that you are a woman in the scene is not always obvious, do you think your gender has ever been an obstacle?
Being a woman is never an obstacle. It is an added value! Stereotypes are only other people’s problem. Now seriously: I deeply believe than women have incredible powers within. In the music industry authenticity and dedication make a huge difference. I consider myself an empowered woman who is authentic and passionate about her music.
And also, as a woman in the Arab scene, how do you feel about the new crop of women owning their presence but also their productions?
It is truly inspiring for me and for a generation of younger women growing up in the Arab world. It is a powerful shift toward greater visibility and independence. In the context of music, this shift represents a rising wave of women confidently creating their own sounds and finally owning their voices.
