Being squeezed between Ed Sheeran and Shakira, the rising superstar Shab celebrates the #2 spot on the UK Commercial Chart with her newest single ‘Music To My Heart.’
Not only is Shab showingcasing her raw talent and ability to put out incredible dance anthems, but she is also an entertainer that possesses a pure passion for the craft. In a conversation for the Vents Magazine, she shares she used music as a form of escapism during tough times when growing up: “Music provided a measure of comfort in our lives as well as a safe haven during very difficult and turbulent times.”
‘Music To My Heart,’ as the newest release out of the Shab enterprise, features young superstars The Martinez Twins, who act as a cherry on top of a delicious cake.
Read our interview below for more details on everything Shab.
Hi SHAB, it’s great to get some time with you. Firstly, for new listeners, could you describe your sound to us?
Somebody a lot more clever than me described my sound as world pop, but I tend to think of it as being the type of music that would be made by a Persian-American Mom who thinks that the post-pandemic world needs to shake its ass a bit.
Congratulations on reaching a #2 spot in the UK Commercial Pop charts, has it sunk in yet?
When the first of my three debut singles hit Number Two, I really did not focus on the identity of the artist who kept me from first place.
But when I saw that my second Number Two single was bested only by Sam Smith, it was disappointing but still gratifying to be listed next to such a supreme artist.
And when my third Number Two single was squeezed between Ed Sheeran — but with Shakira at Number Three — my disappointment was quickly overcome by the thrill of keeping such company on the charts!
What brought you to create a track like Music to My Heart?
I was very much thinking about all the people in my life who were dear to me: and particularly a few of my closest Latina girlfriends in Dallas. The song is written from the standpoint of a romantic relationship, but in my mind it really stood for a more platonic love for the people who warm my heart.
What was the creative process like, behind the making of the music video?
It was fantastic! My director, Eli Sokhn, chose an old Hollywood film set nestled in the canyons of the upper San Fernando Valley where many television shows and movies had been shot.
But beyond the great energy of a video shoot, Eli has become a close friend and even part of my team. Working under his enthused direction proves always one of the highlights of my vocational year.
What was it like working with The Martinez Twins, what do you think they added to the single?
Emilio & Ivan are wonderful young men, really gentlemanly. We had an easy and ready rapport that you can see when you watch the video.
Are there any other current artists out at the moment that you would love to work with (not matter how big or small)?
Yes! Post Malone, Drake, Dua Lipa, Jessie Ware, Sam Smith & Ed Sheeran all would be fantastic collaborators. Call me with a cool project and I will be there!
You were greatly inspired by your brother Shahab to start a career in music, what kind of place did music have for the both of you as you were growing up?
Music provided a measure of comfort in our lives as well as a safe haven during very difficult and turbulent times. I remember having dance parties with my siblings during wartime Iran as a means of giving some normality and comfort to our lives. As a result, music has always had a special place in our family — and when the sisters get together, it’s almost inevitable that we dance!
Are there any artists that have inspired your music?
There are a host of artists in the Middle East that have influenced my music, but of which many of your readers will have never heard.
Yet the first person that comes to mind is my brother Shahab, who is a noted Farsi concert performer in North America.
But among recognized Western artists, I think first of Shakira, J-Lo, Lady Gaga, Jessie Ware and even Dua Lipa. These strong women continue to make their mark on our music scene.
Finally, is there anybody you dream of working with in the future?
I would love to work with any of Post Malone, Drake, Dua Lipa, Jessie Ware, Sam Smith or Ed Sheeran.
‘Music To My Heart’ is out now.
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