NBD but Emirati singer-songwriter Almas is a part of Spotify’s initiative SAWTIK, has performed the official Expo 2020 song ‘This is Our Time’ at the opening ceremony *with* Hussain Al Jassmi, and has been releasing originals these last two months. All at the age of 21.
No big deal…🤯🤯🤯
There’s nothing we love more here at Cosmo ME than finding new talent, especially female regional artists. Almas, translating to diamond in Arabic, is an emerging unsigned musician who we should all have our eyes on.
We sat down with the singer to talk about her major milestones of the year, her inspirations, and what her first dream was (spoiler, she’s living it.)
Scroll down to read the full interview with the star…
Cosmo ME: Tell us something about yourself that no one knows…
Almas: I love mixing genres when it comes to my music, like mixing rock and rap and creating something new.
C: What was your first dream?
A: For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to be a singer and perform shows, I’m grateful my family has supported and helped me make my dream a reality, it wasn’t always easy.
C: How does it feel to represent your country at the Expo 2020 Dubai at such a young age?
A: I felt very proud, it took us months of planning, rehearsing, and coming together to make sure this was a success. My favourite part about the whole experience was the message we delivered; we are encouraging people to come together.
C: What piece of advice would you give to other young Emirati girls who would like to pursue your career?
A: Never give up on your dreams and believe fiercely in yourself. Keep pushing yourself to achieve greatness, make sure to help yourself, and don’t expect others to help you.
C: What are your thoughts on SAWTIK putting female artists on the map?
A: The initiative is a great one, I love the idea of bringing us together, allowing listeners around the world to find the talent here in the region, it connects us. Knowing that we as women in music go through similar struggles and share similar experiences, gives us a strong sense of community.
C: Do you ever feel like women from the MENA region are misrepresented in music? How would you like to change that?
A: Unfortunately, that is the case here in the MENA region. I want to change that by mentoring and supporting other female artists.
C: What do you have in store for 2022?
A: A lot. A few EP’s lined up that I’m excited about.
C: Who are you inspired by?
A: I’ve always looked up to Pink Floyd and Nirvana who have been a great inspiration to me.
Check out Almas’ Youtube page here.
And give SAWTIK a listen here.