Exploring ‘One Suitcase’: A Journey of Music and Empowerment

Balancing Vulnerability with a Radiant Sound

Congratulations on the release of ‘One Suitcase!’ The album includes a mix of personal storytelling and broader themes like love, empowerment, and resilience. How do you balance vulnerability with your radiant ‘world-pop’ sound?

The short answer is: with great difficulty! In all honesty, I didn’t consciously think about balancing genres or themes while compiling the songs for ‘One Suitcase.’ We have many tracks that are nearly finished, but didn’t make it onto this album for various reasons, including our desire to avoid focusing too heavily on one genre.

A Journey of Reinvention

Defining Moments in Your Life and Career

‘ALCHEMY’ speaks to your reinvention after fleeing fundamentalism. What were some defining moments in your journey that shaped the woman and artist you are today?

My journey to America and my gradual westernization over two decades stand as the defining aspects of both my life and career. Many of the beliefs ingrained in me during my formative years in Iran were things I had to consciously unlearn to exist comfortably in America. Additionally, becoming a mother has profoundly impacted me; it motivated me to set a positive example for my children. After my first child was born, I decided to pursue music full-time—so I suppose I have him to thank for that! Lastly, my supportive relationship with my partner, who is also my best friend and confidante, has provided a strong foundation for me to chase my musical dreams.

The Sound of Identity

Diverse Influences in ‘One Suitcase’

‘ONE SUITCASE’ blends multiple genres, from modern disco to Latin and Middle Eastern sounds. How do these diverse influences reflect your identity and artistic vision?

My musical output is simply a reflection of my eclectic taste and the various genres of music I’ve been exposed to throughout my life. Growing up in Iran, I listened to a mix of Western and Middle Eastern music, and my time in Germany and America introduced me to hip-hop and extensive dance music during my commutes in Washington, DC. When I moved to Texas, my Latino friends introduced me to the vibrant world of Latino music. At home, you might hear anything from Frank Sinatra to Tiesto. So, it’s no surprise that my music is a colorful blend of genres.

Navigating Emotional Tones

Exploring Romance and Complexity

Some songs, like ‘AFTERGLOW’ and ‘EXOTICA,’ explore sensuality and romance, while others, like ‘NOSTALGIC,’ have a more vengeful edge. How do you navigate these different emotional tones within one album?

‘ONE SUITCASE’ chronicles my journey to America and the mental transitions necessary for a fully Westernized life. A significant part of that transition involved relearning what it means to be a woman and embracing my femininity. Songs like ‘AFTERGLOW’ and ‘EXOTICA’ reflect one side of romance, while tracks like ‘ALL I WANTED WAS YOU’ and ‘NOSTALGIC’ highlight the complexities of romantic relationships—showing that not every love story is idyllic.

Activism and Empowerment

Humanitarian Efforts and Future Aspirations

The humanitarian aspect of your career is as strong as your musical one, with you recently joining Choose Love as an ambassador. Do you see yourself expanding further into activism in the future?

I don’t consider myself an activist in the traditional sense. However, as a refugee from a regime that suppresses women’s rights, I will always advocate for female empowerment and equality. It’s astonishing that we are still discussing these issues in the 21st century. As long as women around the world face subjugation for expressing their femininity, I will continue to speak out. The political landscape often infuriates me, especially when those in power misuse religion to justify their control.

Evolution as an Artist

From ‘INFINITE LOVE’ to ‘ONE SUITCASE’

From your debut album ‘INFINITE LOVE’ to now, how do you feel you’ve evolved as both an artist and a storyteller?

The evolution from ‘INFINITE LOVE’ to ‘ONE SUITCASE’ is profound. While some songs from my debut album are strong, they mainly fall within the EDM genre and are somewhat reserved in emotional impact. In contrast, ‘ONE SUITCASE’ is filled with deeply personal and reflective songs. I doubt I’ll ever write a track with as much raw emotional depth as ‘ALL I WANTED WAS YOU.’ Even a seemingly catchy song like ‘ALIVE’ holds deeper meanings upon closer listening.

Using Your Platform for Change

Impact through Music and Advocacy

Choose Love has an incredible roster of high-profile supporters, including Oprah and Benedict Cumberbatch. How do you see yourself using your platform to drive change?

I’m uncertain how impactful my role as a spokesperson for Choose Love will be, but I hope to raise awareness about the refugee experience. Having endured a lengthy and difficult immigration process, I find it amusing when people lecture me on immigration issues—especially since many overlook the plight of refugees caught in limbo between their home countries and their desired destinations. The reality of my background often surprises those who hear my music, and my story tends to foster admiration and empathy. I aspire to humanize the refugee experience and advocate for those in similar situations worldwide.

Looking Ahead

Upcoming Projects and Future Directions

Are there any upcoming live shows or tours that fans should be looking forward to in 2025?

We’ve turned down several performance opportunities for 2025, as we didn’t feel the settings were right. However, we are diligently working on finalizing tour dates for next year, as I’m eager to share the songs from ‘ONE SUITCASE’ with my audience.

With ‘ONE SUITCASE’ marking such a major chapter in your career, where do you see yourself headed next musically?

Currently, I’m already three songs into my third album, which I hope to release in 2026. While I haven’t settled on a theme or title yet, these new tracks are more emotionally raw and stripped down compared to those on ‘ONE SUITCASE.’ But before you leave, do listen to ‘ONE SUITCASE.’ I can almost guarantee it will lift your spirits!

Conclusion

‘One Suitcase’ is not just an album; it’s a testament to resilience, transformation, and the rich tapestry of musical influences that shape an artist’s identity. Through personal narratives and a fusion of diverse sounds, this album invites listeners to connect on both emotional and cultural levels.

FAQs

What themes are explored in ‘One Suitcase’?

The album delves into personal storytelling, love, empowerment, and resilience, reflecting both intimate experiences and broader societal issues.

How does the artist navigate different musical genres?

The artist’s diverse musical influences stem from various cultural experiences, resulting in a unique blend that mirrors her eclectic taste.

What motivates the artist’s activism?

As a refugee from a regime that suppresses women’s rights, the artist advocates for female empowerment and equality, standing against the subjugation of women worldwide.

Are there plans for a tour in 2025?

While some performance opportunities were declined, the artist is actively working on finalizing tour dates for 2025 to promote ‘One Suitcase.’

What can fans expect from the next album?

The next project is already in progress, with songs that are emotionally raw and more stripped down compared to ‘One Suitcase.’