Jara

How did you get into music?

It was pretty much by chance and very unexpected to be honest. Unlike most of the artists I know, I was never really a big HipHop head or anything and I actually started listening to rap pretty late. When I first moved to Sweden a few years ago that’s pretty much when it started. I guess the solitude I dealt with there got me into writing pretty much everything I was feeling. Then it just evolved, from me just talking to myself in my head, to me talking out loud, to freestyling, and flowing and it kind of just happened.

How would you describe the music that you make?

I’m still in the process of exploring different genres & styles right now, and I’m trying to push myself out of my comfort zone. I think the music I make, and will make, will pretty much always keep changing and evolving. I’m always adapting, morphing and shifting into different versions of myself and whatever vibe or mood I’m feeling at the time definitely translates through my music. So, I would say the music I make is pretty diverse and always susceptible to change.

Who are the artists, or people, who inspire you?

Since making music for me is more about the messages and power it holds, I listen to other artists like Joyner Lucas, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem & NF. I try to focus on their lyrical word play and try to absorb that knowledge in one way or another and implement and channel it through my art. Music to me is about more than just having something to bop your heard to, it’s about moving people and using your platform for a greater purpose.

Who are the artists, or people, who inspire you?

Since making music for me is more about the messages and power it holds, I listen to other artists like Joyner Lucas, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem & NF. I try to focus on their lyrical word play and try to absorb that knowledge in one way or another and implement and channel it through my art. Music to me is about more than just having something to bop your heard to, it’s about moving people and using your platform for a greater purpose.

What are your latest musical accomplishments?

I’m currently shooting my upcoming music video for ‘Diggity’ which will be out Eid 2021. Other than that, I would say being a part of Spotify’s Sawtik Campaign for female artists and being on billboards all around the MENA region was pretty dope. Also, seeing 966 play on the radio and on TV feels unreal.

What is your creative process like? Has it changed since the pandemic?

I would say my process varies, sometimes I would sit alone for a few hours, play instrumentals / beats and come up with 2/3 songs. Most of the time, I’m usually always looking for inspiration so whenever something hits me I’d always keep a note of it for later. In terms of the actual process, it’s always just me and myself, I prefer being alone because that’s usually when I come up with my best work.

Where have you performed? What was your favourite venue to perform at?

I’ve done a few small performances in Jeddah, Riyadh & Stockholm. I’m sure being on huge stages would be a whole other experience, but from the small ones I’ve done so far it feels cool slowly seeing myself evolve but I wouldn’t say I have a favourite yet.

What are your latest releases? What is the story behind them?

My latest release was a song I made for Saudi National day, 966. The whole concept and message behind it was to highlight the diversity and show the fusion of cultures and races we have here. It’s my way of debunking the stereotypical assumptions people have about Saudi. I really wanted to merge the underground urban scene with the more cultural parts of Saudi.

Are you working with any other artists right now?

Collaborating and merging has always been on my to-do list for sure. So yes, this year hopefully you’ll be seeing me with a bunch of different artists local, regional & international too.

What is your involvement in the Regional Artist Spotlight mean to you?

Honestly, it’s beyond surreal. It usually takes me a while to let things sink in and I’m mad honored and grateful to get this exposure and support for real!

What is your top 5 afterparty playlist?

When I Grow Up – NF JA ARA E – Burna Boy Otis – Jay-Z, Kanye West, Otis Redding On My Way – Rae Cragun Praise The Lord (Da Shine) – A$AP Rocky, Skepta"