Amidst shows, an album release, and her back and forth between Beirut and Dubai, KHAMSA caught up with the rising star for a quick chat.
Behind her wild curls, stellar smile, and silky voice, singer, song-writer, and dancer Shana (a.k.a. Ss.hh.a.n.a) hides a golden heart. Drawing inspiration from her vulnerabilities as well as the everyday joys of her life, she tries to lay a ground for her listeners to relate to her music, while making them dance and grove to her upbeat sounds. Prior to dedicating her life to her craft, she was a volunteer in Lebanon with many NGOs, including the Red Cross, but after a push from her family and friends, she decided to plunge head-first into music. Needless to say, based on her raving success, multiple singles, and performances both in Beirut and Dubai, Ss.hh.a.n.a is set on becoming a staple name in the pop and indie music scene of the Arab world.
KHAMSA asked Ss.hh.a.n.a a few questions about her inspiration, her aspirations, and her future plans.
١. How would you define your music?
“My music is a blend of pop and indie pop with an ’80s vibe, featuring a saxophone in many of my songs. Each track tells a story, often inspired by my personal experiences, ranging from self-love to dealing with insecurities and obviously love songs. I explore different genres and styles, showcasing a different persona with each song, reflecting various facets of who I am.
“I believe in creating without boundaries, allowing my music to evolve and reveal my strengths and vulnerabilities. I approach my music with a fearless attitude, no overthinking, just creating. This freedom to experiment means that every song is a new adventure, and my audience can expect the unexpected. I hope my songs inspire others to embrace their true selves and connect with their own stories.”
٢. How do you mix together your passions for fashion and music?
To me, fashion is a powerful tool for confidence and self-expression. It’s also a kind of defence mechanism, allowing me to compensate for any weaknesses by showcasing my strengths through my style. I find it fascinating how much you can tell about a person just by the way they dress. Fashion reveals our identity, character, and sometimes even the different sides of who we are. As an artist, fashion helps me express myself and speak out, making bold statements through my outfits.
“Mixing fashion with music is a natural extension of my artistry. On stage, my outfits become part of the performance, enhancing the storytelling and the emotions I convey through my songs. Each look is carefully chosen to reflect the vibe of the song and the message I want to share with my audience. It’s fun to dress up differently all the time, adopting various styles and personas that complement my music. Fashion allows me to choose the character I want to be, adding another layer of creativity to my performances.
– Ss.hh.a.n.a
“Nowadays, many fashion brands are interested in collaborating with artists, which I find incredibly exciting. These collaborations allow us to blend visual aesthetics with musical artistry, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for our audiences. Fashion brands provide new platforms for artists to showcase their creativity, and in turn, artists bring fresh perspectives and innovation to fashion. Ultimately, both fashion and music are about expressing who you are and the vibe you want to share with people. By integrating my passion for fashion with my music, I get to communicate my story in a more vivid and impactful way. Each performance and outfit is a statement, a chance to connect with my audience and share a piece of my world with them.”
٣. How is it like being between Dubai and Beirut?
“Being between Dubai and Beirut has been a rollercoaster of emotions, making it an incredible, enriching experience. Dubai has become a second home, offering so many opportunities and a vibrant, supportive community that has been instrumental in my growth. The city’s dynamic art scene and the incredible support from my team have allowed me to take significant strides in my career, helping me reach a wider audience and gain invaluable exposure.
“At the same time, Beirut remains an essential part of my journey. Returning to Lebanon provides a sense of grounding and inspiration that is deeply rooted in my cultural heritage. It’s where my artistic passion was born, and being back home always rejuvenates my creative spirit. Balancing these two cities has allowed me to blend diverse influences and perspectives into my work, enriching my artistic expression. The opportunities in Dubai have pushed me to expand my horizons, while Beirut keeps me connected to my roots, reminding me of where I started. Navigating these spaces has taught me the importance of adaptability and seizing the right opportunities.”
٤. What’s next for you?
Currently, I’m putting my heart and soul into crafting my debut album and an EP, each track a reflection of my artistic evolution. But that’s just the beginning! There’s a whirlwind of exciting projects, performances to collaborations, and so many exciting things. I’m truly humbled by the overwhelming support I’ve received thus far. It’s the fuel that propels me to dream bigger, to push boundaries, and to share my growth with all of you.
– Ss.hh.a.n.a
٥. To younger girls reading this piece, and who want to follow your footsteps, do you have a message for them?
“I want you to know that the journey of an artist is filled with both challenges and incredible rewards. My message to you is this: believe in your gift and know that it comes with a purpose. Every brushstroke, every line, every piece you create is a reflection of your unique perspective and voice. Use your talent wisely and push yourself to explore new heights. There will be times when you might feel discouraged, but remember that perseverance and passion are your greatest tools. Don’t be afraid to express your true self through your art. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you, and never stop learning and growing.
“Your journey will not only be about the art you create, but also about the person you become in the process. Believe in your potential, work hard, and always stay true to your vision. The world needs your creativity and your voice. It’s also important not to compare yourself to others in a way that undermines your confidence. Each artist has their own path and their own story. Instead of seeing others as competition, view their success as motivation and inspiration. We are all unique, and that’s what makes the art world so rich and diverse. Support your fellow artists, learn from them, and let their achievements push you to strive even harder. Don’t be afraid to take risks and believe in what you do.”
٦. To the generations of women in the industry that came before you, what would you tell them?
“To the generations of women in the industry that came before me, I want to express my deepest gratitude and admiration. Your perseverance, creativity, and courage have paved the way for artists like myself. You have broken barriers, challenged norms, and created a space where women can freely express themselves and their art. Your journeys and accomplishments have shown me that it is possible to turn passion into a career, despite the challenges and obstacles. You’ve demonstrated the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to one’s vision. As a Lebanese artist, I draw immense inspiration from your stories and achievements. You have not only contributed to the art world but have also empowered future generations of female artists.”
To stay up to date with Ss.hh.a.n.a’s and what she is up to, you can follow her on Instagram.
