Blending classical Arabic tarab with contemporary pop, Lebanese singer-songwriter Aziza is breathing new life into the region’s musical heritage. In this interview, she shares the inspirations behind her unique musical style and her passion for reinterpreting tradition through a modern lens.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My love for music began at a very young age. My father was a singer, so some of my earliest memories involve accompanying him to his gigs and watching him perform live. That experience sparked something in me, and I started singing whenever I had the chance, whether it was in school musicals, university events, karaoke nights or even joining an Arabic bossa nova band when I was 19.

The journey to where I am today wasn’t straightforward. It took time, effort and a lot of trial and error to discover my true sound and understand who I am as an artist in this industry.

When I officially launched my career, I created “tarapop,” a genre and sound that blends classical Arabic tarab with modern pop culture. It’s more than just a musical style; it’s an expression of how I interpret music and how I experience the world around me.

I’ve always been deeply inspired by the greats of Arabic music — icons like Abdel Wahab and Warda — but I also connect with the energy and boldness of Western pop legends like Michael Jackson and Freddie Mercury. Tarapop is the result of all those influences coming together. It represents me. It’s where my musical identity lives: a vibrant world of melodies, rhythms and colors. It’s my world.

How would you describe your relationship with Lebanon?

انا وياك قصة حب كتير غريبة, which means “You and I have a very strange love story.”

Actually its a line from a song that I wrote called “Nostalgia” (Ana w Yak) that is due to be released in winter of 2025.

It’s like a love story that never ends, through sickness and health, through every high and low. I’ve tried countless times to convince myself to leave and start over in a new country, but no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t let go.

Beit Douma

Where are your favorite places to escape, reflect or create in Lebanon?

I just love getaways in Lebanon. We have amazing hotels and guesthouses in the mountains and by the sea. For instance, I love escaping the hustle and bustle of the city at Beit Trad and Beit Douma. There’s nothing quite like the serenity of the mountains.

In terms of where I create, creation doesn’t happen at a specific place or time. In fact, you never quite know where inspiration strikes. For me, it often happens when I’m on a plane!

Is there a hidden gem in Lebanon you think everyone should discover?

I love Sogno in Naccache. They have great coffee; it’s the best in town, actually.

What’s something few people know about you?

I am someone who doesn’t like to party or go out that much at night. Home gatherings and calm dinners are much more my thing.

Your track “Mn Hadid” brought a disco twist to Arabic music during a difficult time in Lebanon. What inspired that release?

Most of my music derives from either personal experiences or from stories I’ve heard.

Sometimes we are brought down by our closest people, be it friends, family, partners or social media. However, I always remind myself that no matter where I am in my life or how scared and lonely I might be feeling , I should not listen to anyone’s unhealthy opinion.

That was the whole message behind “Mn Hadid.” It aimed to empower, especially after all the crises we went through in Lebanon.

Are you currently working on new music or any exciting projects?

Yes, I’m currently working on a short EP. It’s a playful, heartfelt project rooted in pan-Arab and multilingual sounds, blending regional influences with modern storytelling. The themes revolve mostly around love and its amusing dynamics pulled from real-life moments, daily experiences and a bit of nostalgia. It’s a sonic mix that feels familiar yet fresh, and I can’t wait to share it.

If you enjoyed reading this, check out our interview with actor and filmmaker Zeina Daccache.