Featured Artist
SS.HH.A.N.A
Can you tell us about the moment you realised you wanted to pursue a career in music?
The first time I stepped on stage was THE/MY moment. Finally, I knew what I wanted to dedicate my whole life to. I was ready to drop everything and get that repeated feeling again and again and again. From that moment, I felt like I had a purpose.
How would you describe the music that you make?
I’d describe my music as a self-discovery, a throwback, a mixture of feelings, a story. If I had to classify my music under a specific category, I’d say New Age Pop.
What are some key elements that drive you to continue making music?
The never-ending adrenaline. The passion and the love. The people’s support. The connections and the impact. The vision and the Goal.
What would you say is the biggest moment of your career so far?
For me, every day is a significant moment in my career. I wake up every morning with a new goal to achieve, a new idea, and a new project I want to work on. It’s when I pile all the things I’m working on throughout my journey on top of each other that I realise that every opportunity, every release, every project, big or small, every experience, makes every moment a big unique one for me.
Tell us about your creative process? Has it always been the same?
My creative process as an artist changes a lot day by day as I get to learn from myself and the people around me. I get inspired by life events and try to write about things that inspire me or that could impact someone else’s life. I had difficulty writing songs at first, but with time it got easier. The more I get out of my comfort zone, the more I see my ability to create something new and different for my audience.
Where have you performed? What was your favourite venue to perform in?
I had the privilege of performing in Dubai and Lebanon. My favorite place to perform has been The Theater Dubai. I’ve grown so much since, made a lot of connections, and met wonderful people there.
If you could share the stage with any artist, who would it be and why?
That’s a very difficult question! I have so many artists I dream of collaborating with such as Drake, Harry styles, Calvin Harris, Pharrell, Dua Lipa, Alicia Keys, Justin Bieber etc.
Can you tell us about the story behind your latest release ‘Home’?
I wrote the song when I was in Lebanon, one summer evening, surrounded by my family and friends. After receiving a phone call saying that I was officially traveling for months far from my country and all that is precious in my life, I felt the need and inspiration to write about how I felt at the moment. I almost finished the song that very night. The story behind ‘Home’ is about this desire to return to my native country despite its imperfections and disasters. I often feel nostalgic and uprooted when I find myself far from my family, friends, and Lebanon, which I love so much. However, I am aware that being far from my country is, for the moment, the best choice for me and my future. It talks about this love-deception relationship that mostly every Lebanese can relate to.
What is your favorite release in recent years and why?
Each song is special to me, but if I had to choose, I’d say Home Is my favorite release so far. Being the first song I ever wrote with profound meaning to it is what makes it very dear to my heart.
Can you talk about upcoming releases in 2022? Can we expect an album?
I can’t wait to share my upcoming release and first-ever album with you!! My team and I are working very hard, and we hope to share all of it before the end of the year! It will be a collection of the vastly different characters (styles) that make up who I am as a whole.
What accomplishments do you see yourself achieving in the coming years?
I hope to keep this continuous success going and growing. I hope to continue sharing my music with the world, perform at festivals, and collaborate with the world’s biggest names in the industry. Start touring, and most importantly, be as successful as possible to help my country, celebrate my culture and make my nation proud.
Who would you like to work with from the region?
I’d love to collaborate with Moroccan singers Abir and Faouzia and the Palestinian Chilean singer Elyanna one day. I find these women talented, unique, and impactful.
What is the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?
Sing for yourself and others always. Then, when you sing from your heart and soul, you’ll reach through to theirs.
Describe your favorite interaction with a fan.
I returned to Lebanon for a few weeks and decided to give back to the community at the children's cancer center and entertain young kids. I met a little boy that was always grumpy and was never in the mood for people to come and visit him. So on the next day, I brought my guitar with me to the hospital to sing instead of just talk to him. The minute I started singing and playing, I was surprised by the smile on his face that directly appeared, and that was one of the most beautiful moments I’ve experienced as an artist. From that day on, that beautiful smile stayed there every time I went to see him.
What would’ve been your career if you weren’t making music?
I would’ve wanted to become a fashion designer. I’ve always been so fond of fashion and creating my clothing line. I’ve also always been so fond of movies and acting. But If I had to choose a career far from the world of fame, I would work in Events management. Before becoming a professional artist, I worked as an Event planner and loved it.
What does your involvement in the Regional Artist Spotlight mean to you?
Being involved in the Regional Artist spotlight is a great honor. I can share what I love to do and connect with a new audience. Being represented in my region makes me so happy and proud. Thank you :)
What is your top 5 after-party playlist?
- Harry’s House - Harry styles
- Honestly, Never Mind - Drake
- Love Deluxe - Sade
- Keys - Alicia Keys
- Happier than ever - Billie Eillish