At just 22 years old, Talia Lahoud already has a fair share of milestones under her belt. She became the only representative from the Middle East to feature in Apple Music’s Global ‘Up Next’ artists campaign, was named one of Billboard Arabia’s Fresh Voices, oh…and she joined Ed Sheeran and Jennifer Lopez in Dolby’s latest global campaign (the only MENA arists ever to be featured, may we add). An impressive feat, most would agree, for a young woman that grew up posting singing covers in a small beach town in Lebanon.
Earlier this year, the Lebanese singer released her debut EP “Gharibi” that she co-produced with hitmaker Jamal Yassine. Well versed in English, Arabic and French songwriting, Talia’s eclectic sound is poised to push the boundaries of Arabic pop music. Her inspirations are as diverse as they are timeless, drawing upon artists like Fairouz, Andrea Bocelli and Olivia Rodrigo to influence her sound and lyricism in unique ways. “Gharibi” is testament to exactly that, merging classical influences with Taylor Swift-worthy lyrics about heartbreak to make a bold statement through her music. It seems Talia Lahoud has a story or two to tell, and we’re ready to listen.
Our exclusive interview with rising star Talia Lahoud
Cosmo ME: When did you decide that music was something you wanted to pursue?
Talia: I knew music was going to be my life-long career the moment I started singing in my first elementary school musical at around 6 years old. I loved standing in front of a crowd and expressing myself through singing and art. It’s been my passion ever since and I couldn’t see myself pursuing any other career.
Cosmo ME: You have proven that Arabic and English music can go hand in hand. How important is it to incorporate Arabic elements into your music?
Talia: I think what has helped me most in combining Arabic and English music is my background in Western music. I started singing in English and French, and around the age of 17, I began dedicating time to learning Arabic music. Being well-versed in these styles has made it easier for me to blend them into something harmonious. I fell in love with the emotions and meanings behind Arabic music, and I now fully incorporate it into my songs alongside the other genres I’ve learned and enjoyed throughout the years.
“You don’t have to be the best, the most talented, or the most creative; you just have to be yourself. And that is enough”.
Cosmo ME: Do you have any key inspirations when it comes to creating music?
Talia: Usually before I sit down to create a new song, I like to listen to a few of my favorites, some classics by Andrea Bocelli, classical guitar or piano music, Fairuz, and also some newer artists. That usually gets me in the mood to create, and inspires me to put my whole heart and soul into making a new sound.
Cosmo ME: You recently released your debut EP ‘Gharibi’. Tell us a bit about what that meant to you.
Talia: My EP conveys the message of loving yourself no matter what, embracing your flaws, embracing the journey, and letting your truest, most vulnerable self out. A lot of us grew up feeling a little out of place, a little too “weird” for this world. I just want these people to know that they are not alone, and that their differences are what makes them special and unique.
Cosmo ME: What was the inspiration behind your music video for ‘Gharbi”?
Talia: I wanted to create a visual that was different, weird, and creative. The location we chose in Tripoli portrayed the song so perfectly, with the wonderful and unique architecture of the Rachid Karime park. It all came together like a beautiful piece of art.
Cosmo ME: As an up and coming artist in the music industry, what are you most excited for as you navigate your way through your career?
Talia: I’m honestly excited about working and evolving as an artist as well as a person. Being in the music industry taught me hardwork and discipline towards my craft. It has made me a better person, and I can’t wait to keep meeting amazing people from all around the globe who share my passion for music. It’s been really fun and music is my reason for waking up everyday!
“I have a lot of self-doubt at times, but there are also days where I’m sure I will reach the world with my music”.
Cosmo ME: What advice would you offer to anyone who wants to start creating and producing music?
Talia: To keep their art as a reflection of themselves is what sets them apart as artists and creators. When we open our hearts through the art we share, people will love us for who we are. You don’t have to be the best, the most talented, or the most creative; you just have to be yourself. And that is enough.
Cosmo ME: What is something people don’t know about being a musician?
Talia: Although I am a really hard worker, I have days where I can’t even produce the smallest beat or write a single lyric. Creativity comes with its ups and downs, and it’s completely normal to have days where you’re not feeling it. I have a lot of self-doubt at times, but there are also days where I’m sure I will reach the world with my music.
Cosmo ME: You have recently been involved in Dolby’s Love More Dolby Campaign, and you are the only MENA artist to ever be included. How has it been to work with such a globally known brand?
Talia: I’m really grateful to Dolby for featuring me in their campaign. It was such a lovely opportunity to experience my music in Dolby Atmos in their studios. I loved collaborating on this project and sharing the meaningful message of “loving your truest self” with others.
“I want to be remembered as someone who loved their culture and shared it with the world“.
Cosmo ME: Who’s your ideal musician to collaborate with and why?
Talia: I have so many dream collaborators from the East and West. When I was younger I dreamt of collabing with Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Sia… I love how real they are as artists. They’ve always been my biggest inspirations growing up. I would also love to collaborate with big singers such as Nancy Ajram, Wael Kfoury, Cairokee…
Cosmo ME: What legacy do you intend to leave within the music industry through your career?
Talia: I want to be remembered as someone who loved their culture and shared it with the world; someone who worked hard to reach their goals and was an inspiration to future generations. I hope they know that I started from nothing, and if I can do it, anyone from any part of the world can do anything.
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