Egyptian music star Layal shares more about her brand new single Alha Sahra, her influences behind the song, her growth as an artist and more.

Egyptian soul artist LAYAL returns to the scene after some time away to develop her sound further and to build a profound growth in her foundation . known for popular songs such as Madina (Remix) , Alhamy, This State and many more the Cairo born singer songwriter whose music is based on identity and self expression. She has shared many stages performing stage festivals over the years like Wireless Festival, Latitude, BBC Introducing, Balamii and Foundation FM just to name a few. Layal has risen to greater heights via her latest single Alha Sahra . Speaking more about the song the rising star says " This track celebrates self-expression and resilience, moving between intimate vocals and groove-driven arrangements that feel both grounded and expansive "

Produced by Ali Lasheen This record is inspired by legendary Egyptian pop artists such as Dina El Wedidi, Gamalat Sheha and Donia Massoud just to name a few. The song is sung in Layal's mother tounge of Arabic and shares themes on identity and heritage. The record also blends neo-soul sounds with the widely popular Egyptian sound of Sa'idi.

Layal joined us to share more about her new track and more behind her growing sound and what she hopes fans will take and learn from her latest offering and also shares more on her heritage, what it was like taking inspiration from her musical heroes and more.

Stream Alha Sahra on Spotify , Tidal , Deezer and more

Hey Layal, it’s so lovely to have you feature on the platform again. Your latest single Ahla Sahra, it’s a real treat. How did the song first come about?

LAYAL : I had the vision for the song brewing already for some time. I started looking for songs with a similar vibe and compiling a playlist of what I want the overall sound, lyrics and music to sound like. I created a vision board because that always helps me visualise where I’m trying to take the song and what direction I need to make that happen. Luckily, Ali Lasheen, my producer and founder of SWANA Records understood my vision and we made it happen!

2. What do you hope listeners take from the song, are there expectations from this release? 

         LAYAL : As always, I want the listeners to be teleported to their happy place when they listen to Ahla Sahra. It’s a happy & feisty song so I hope they get to feel themselves and feel confident. If my music could give a listener a boost in their self-esteem that is a big accomplishment for me !

3) Now this song is said to be inspired by Egyptian artists such as Dina El Wedidi, Gamalat Sheha, Donia Massoud and so on. What did you take from them , was it their songwriting style, singing style, the message of their songs ?

LAYAL:  How I said I want my listeners to feel is how these women made me feel. It’s the confidence they have when they perform their songs, it’s the message behind t

he song and their style of songwriting. I like to surround myself with strong and secure women. I draw so much inspiration from it as I always want to learn and be better at whatever I do and I know the secret to that is great role models.

4) The single has an amazing arrangement, and it really showcases your developed sound, compared to other songs like Fanana, This state, Cosmic Greentea, Darabat and more. How would you describe your growth as an artist?

LAYAL :  I’ve definitely evolved a lot, I still want to experiment with so many different sounds so I haven't narrowed it down just yet, it’s too difficult! However, I know what the overall sound and energy I want to give. I’m curating my songs now based on how it will deliver when playing live to an audience. I want something that’ll make you dance!

5)  What do you hope people and listeners learn about you or is there anything you would like to share wisdom on concerning your sound and message through your music?

LAYAL: My sound and writing is fully fuelled by the women around me and the world we’re in. They’re always the first thing on my mind when I start a new song. I’m always thinking of ways to provoke a conversation for them, to make them see their own potential, hopefully to pave the way so they can walk and feel the confidence to be authentically and unapologetically themselves

6)  Lastly, you’ve had a stunning year. What can fans and supporters look forward to in the new year ?

LAYAL : This year was so important for me. Even though I’ve been doing this for a while, except that this year I truly felt that my artistic persona and my identity merged into one. I worked hard the year before to improve and progress and I felt seen. 

Supporters can continue to expect more music, more visuals, more performances. I am always listening and paying attention too. If I see a gap or a need for something I will give it to them!

For more info follow Layal on Instagram