My Playlist With…Tamtam Sound

No playlist is complete without Michael Jackson. His music inspires me so much, lately I’ve been really into ‘Liberian Girl’. The Killers are another staple for me, Brandon Flowers is such an incredible songwriter and I love their '80s influences. Similarly, Depeche Mode is always a vibe. Jorja Smith has a way of making me feel beautiful and empowered.

For the ultimate road trip playlist, there’s something about electronic music with vocals that’s perfect for car rides. My line-up includes some of that, with a few indie and hip-hop tracks thrown in. On the list is ‘You Always Say’ by French 79, ‘Prudence’ by Olivia Merilahti, ‘Over You’ by Madism & Philip Strand, ‘Move’ by Adam Port, ‘Messy’ by Lola Young and ‘I Hate Your Ex- Girlfriend’ by Banks feat. Doechii.

Austin by Post Malone is the last album that I loved from start to finish. I need to get back into listening to full albums, as I tend to get caught up in singles with how quickly music is released these days. 

My favourite album of all time? Michael Jackson’s Bad –  no doubt about it. Every song tells a story, and you can feel so many different emotions through his voice. He’s probably my favourite artist of all time, but Britney Spears comes a close second. I’m a sucker for pop music, both of them have had a massive impact on me and the pop genre as a whole.

I love a classic. I never skip ‘Ya Habibi Taala’ by Asmahan, ‘Holding Out For A Hero’ by Bonnie Tyler, ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ by John Denver, ‘The Boys Of Summer’ by Don Henley and ‘Have You Ever Seen The Rain’ by Creedence Clearwater Revival.

If I’m getting ready for a night out or going on a girl's trip, I would suggest Yuna, Caroline Polachek, Lola Young, Chappell Roan, Taylor Swift, Tate McRae, Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, Madonna, Shakira, Lily Meola, Nina Simone and Lana Del Rey – all the catchy, sing-along songs that you can scream to with your girls. I play anything upbeat that gets me in the mood to go out. The last time I got ready, I put on the Spotify radio of ‘Me Against the Music’ by Britney Spears and Madonna and it was a winner.

If I need a good cry, ‘You’re Somebody Else’ by Flora Cash, ‘Go’ by Cat Burns, ‘Enter One’ by Sol Seppy, ‘This Town’ by Kygo ft Sasha Alex Sloan and so many songs by Lana Del Rey are my go-tos. These songs are so nostalgic for me and tug at my heartstrings.                          

At the end of a long day, I like to play something more chill, like Enya. Her music has a calming, soothing effect on me and I love her lyrics.

Before a live show, I typically don’t listen to music, but if I do, it’s usually my own. Lately, I’ve been playing my track ‘Ma3assalama Side A’ to get in the right headspace. This project holds deep personal meaning for me – ‘Ma3assalama’ translates to ‘farewell’ in Arabic, and through this album, I’m gently letting go of a part of myself that no longer serves me. Music has always been my way of truly expressing my emotions, and creating this album felt like a form of self-healing, allowing me to process and release what no longer aligns with me.

Each song captures a piece of my journey, reminding me that to grow and evolve, we must continually let go. I’m especially grateful to have worked with incredibly talented writers and producers to bring this vision to life. Sharing this piece of my heart with the world, in Arabic – a language rich in depth and resonance – has been a profoundly meaningful experience. Through music, I connect with my emotions on a deeper level and find peace.

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