Dubai-born singer/songwriter Sophia Shahabi, known simply as Sophia, already has a list of accomplishments at only eighteen years old, that most starting artists could only dream of. Currently promoting the release of her single ‘Til We Die’ on iTunes and Amazon, Sophia’s unique R&B sound has been influenced by musicians like Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna.
Sophia blends her own sounds, creating awesome club rhythms with an upbeat dance groove that will in our opinion, make her a superstar.
We recently got a chance to catch up with Sophia, and ask her a few questions.
What is your music background?
I’ve always loved singing since a young age. I’d put my favourite records on (mainly R&B) and would sing all the time. I started writing songs at 13 and started playing the piano. At 16 I took classical vocal training as well as Music A Level in Live Performance. I always took it very seriously and am perusing it into the industry.
Why do you want to record and release your own music?
I want to make music for a living as it’s my passion for a start. To make great songs, great albums to give people what other artists have given me – an escape. Music is liberation and happiness. To be out there as a solo artist and release your songs is a brave thing to do, so I respect that.
Who are your fans?
My music is Pop/Dance, so anybody who likes this genre. The fans I’ve met so far are young, female but I want to be able to create great club tunes EVERYONE can dance to and enjoy.
What are your songs about?
I write about everything. My debut single ‘Till We Die’ is about freedom – living through the music and uniting together through dance.
Do you write your own songs?
I do write my own songs. I love being a lyricist and creating melodies. I work with producers also who help me create the sound. It always starts with lyrics for me though, and I know what music I want to go with it. I always record over a basic track then we add more features and do the ad-libs.
Who are your musical influences?
My main musical influences are Jennifer Lopez and Rihanna. I love JLO’s flavour in her music. Also, David Guetta, Ester Dean & Crystle Johnson.
What are your immediate music career goals, in the next 1 to 3 years?
I would love to pair with a record label that can support me in creating my first album. My ultimate goal is to go on a world tour.
How would you define the word “success”?
Achieving your dreams, and your desires in life. A positive outcome from hard work.
Do you have any personal contacts in the music business?
I’ve been lucky to meet with some great Grammy Award Winning producers.
What live performance experience have you had? Any industry showcases?
I’ve mainly performed in Music Venues & Nightclubs. For example, I performed at The Embassy Nightclub in Mayfair, London as well as headlining my own show as part of the largest arts festival in the world ‘The Fringe’.
How do you rate your live performance ability?
I am confident, which is key. But great ability comes with experience.
Have you recorded any previous CDs or posted any audio files on the Internet?
My song ‘Till We Die’ is currently for sale on iTunes. You can catch it on YouTube & Soundcloud also as well as a few covers of my favourite songs.
Have you had any previous print or broadcast media exposure or reviews?
My Music blogs have reviewed my song e.g. On The Radio & The Buzzz Stop. I’ve had features in newspapers in The UK as well as BBC Radio Play which is great exposure!
How can your potential fans find you?
On Twitter @sophiasofficial, or on my youtube channel it has all my links: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41UENX4xfWU.
