Your new single “Home” is a beautiful representation about how we never lose the connection to where we came from. Can you share what inspired you to write this song about your home country, Lebanon?
SS.HH.A.N.A: I guess I just felt very emotional at the moment, seeing day by day how my country was going downhill yet being here, surrounded by my family and friends and really feeling complete and knowing that I was about to leave a few weeks later to pursue my artistic career … really just made me wanna write about the situation and how I felt about all of it at the moment.
What does your songwriting process look like? Do you plan sessions or get to writing when inspiration strikes?
SS.HH.A.N.A: I do both. Sometimes I plan on writing every day for several hours or whenever the inspiration strikes I always have my notebook next to me to write whatever comes to mind.
Who would you say are your biggest influences when it comes to your music and style?
SS.HH.A.N.A: My biggest influences would be Alicia Keys, dua lipa, sade, Christina Aguilera, Amy Winehouse, Tina Turner, Billie Eillish and Ariana Grande.
How was your residency at The Theater Dubai? That must have been an incredible experience!
SS.HH.A.N.A: I spent an amazing time at the Theater Dubai ! I am so very grateful to have performed there , especially with Guy Manoukian. It was one of the best experiences and exposures I’ve had as an up-coming artist. I learned more than I thought I would when It comes to show-business and I’ve met people that are now like family to me. Didn’t feel like work, it was fun, it was challenging, it was tiring yet I only left with a positive mind.
I know something you strive for in your life and in music is positivity. Do you have any advice for how to live a more “glass half-full” life?
SS.HH.A.N.A: For me , my best advice would be to always look at the bright side, and that not matter what happens it happens for a reason , for the best . Sometimes it’s tougher than what it seems but I’m also a believer and my belief keeps me going and helps me a lot.
What can we expect from your debut album coming out later this year? I can’t wait to give it a listen!
SS.HH.A.N.A: What I want is for people to get to know the different sides of me just like I am throughout this whole process. You can expect self-discovery and autobiography. This album was a way for me to explore facets of my personality, my artistry and my life. While creating this album, I discovered layers of myself that I hadn’t uncovered yet and strived to share it with my listeners. This was both an opportunity for me and my audience.
Interviewed By Sarah Curry
Photo Credits: Francesca Matta @francescamatta_
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