The Arabic version of “We Pray” is set to make waves globally, featuring an exciting collaboration between Coldplay and Elyanna. The track, releasing on September 20, brings together voices from across the world, including Nigeria, Argentina, and the UK. Palestinian-Chilean singer Elyanna adds her unique touch, performing in Arabic and weaving in her roots.
Photo Greg Noire
Her collaboration with Coldplay began in the studio with Chris Martin, where their shared love for music quickly turned into creating something meaningful together. Come January 11, the singer and the band will bring their sound to Abu Dhabi in a GCC-exclusive concert. The Arabic version of “We Pray” features her lyrics, written with her family, adding authenticity and heartfelt emotion to the track. This version is not just a translation, but a personal dedication to her people and her culture, filled with hope and light in tough times.
In an exclusive interview, Elyanna shares details about this incredible collaboration, offering behind-the-scenes insights into how it all came together.
Elyanna with Coldplay on stage in Dublin
It’s almost time for the world to hear the Arabic version of “We Pray”, which sees you singing alongside Coldplay. How do you feel about this collaboration?
I’m so excited to announce that my Arabic version of “We Pray” will be released on September 20th! This opportunity means the world to me, and collaborating with Coldplay is a dream come true. Singing in Arabic on one of their tracks feels incredibly special and deeply personal. “We Pray” is a song that the world needs right now, it has a powerful purpose, hoping that it could unite people even further. I also love the fact that all featured artists come from different parts of the world: Nigeria, Argentina, UK & each artist put their own touch and language in the song. I really enjoyed meeting, working and performing with Little Simz, Burna Boy & TINI – artists that I admire.
I’m truly grateful for the support from Chris and the band, which has allowed me to proudly represent where I come from. This collaboration has given me the chance to share my language and my roots with the world – and for that, I am so grateful.
Growing up, were you a Coldplay fan? Tell us a little bit about the first time you met the band, and how that meeting went.
I’ve always been a Coldplay fan! Their music has been a source of comfort for me, and even their piano loops have inspired me and my brother Feras to create. This collaboration is very special. When I was 14, I went to one of their shows with my siblings and was amazed by how powerful, genuine, and global their performance was. I first met Chris in the studio, where we had numerous conversations about different things and really got the chance to know each other. He played the piano for me and Feras, and he started singing “We Pray.” I joined in with some Arabic scales, and he loved it! We wrote my verse the same day we met and continued working on the track together in the studio. I was nervous, but Chris is such a down-to-earth and humble person, which made it easy to build this connection. I met the rest of the amazing band for the first time at Glastonbury – an unforgettable moment! They were so welcoming! We had the chance to perform “We Pray” and “Arabesque” together to which I also added Arabic verses.
Photo: Greg Noire
Your musical style is quite different from Coldplay – which makes this combination even more unique. Despite your differences as artists, what’s one thing you have in common with each other?
We both love sad music, haha, even if our music is different. I feel the thing in common is that in any song, sad or happy it always has a glimpse of hope and light, our purpose of making music aligns really well.
Coldplay has always explored different cultures and styles, making their music international and unique. I feel the same way — I love experimenting with music and art, breaking the usual boundaries. It’s one of the most powerful things an artist can do. That’s why I enjoyed this collaboration so much. It was all about working together and staying true to what felt right and honest. They’re great role models for me as a young artist. I love their environment and purpose, their energy and work ethic. I feel like I’m learning so much from them.
“We Pray” is already trending around the world. What’s one thing that sets the Arabic version apart from the original?
Singing in Arabic on a Coldplay song, having a verse that I wrote with my mom and brother, is very personal! With my verse being in Arabic, with words focused on giving hope, in these tough times, I want to be able to share light. There are many unique Arabic vocal runs in the background that added something special to the track. Coming from Nazareth, Palestine, I pray for my people during these tough times, and I dedicate “We Pray” to them.
Is there any particular line in the song “We Pray” that you hold close to your heart? If yes, which one is it and why?
بحلم امال، بحلم سلام
You recently performed with Coldplay in Dublin, and it instantly become a viral moment! Can you tell us a little bit about that experience? Did you expect it to resonate the way it did with music lovers?
That experience was unforgettable! The street performance in Dublin was raw and fun and genuine. It was amazing to see so many people come out. It was a heartfelt performance from everyone involved in the song, and it was a great way for us to connect with the audience. Seeing how much Ireland supports Palestine made this even more special for me. On the second day, performing at one of Coldplay’s stadium shows in Dublin was not only beautiful and inspiring but also deeply moving. The energy and support from the crowd made it a moment I will always remember.
Photo: Greg Noire
At just 22 years old, you’re already a well-known name globally. Looking back at your life, did you anticipate making it this big?
Growing up, I always had big goals and dreams. I’m not sure where this drive came from, but it felt like from the skies above. I truly believed in achieving what I loved, and I’ve been fortunate to have the best support from my family, who has always been there to encourage and push me. I’m incredibly grateful for everything that’s been happening and for my fans who have stood by me. There’s still so much to learn and a long journey ahead, but as long as you stay open to facing challenges and embracing growth, you can make it. Balancing the pursuit of perfecting your craft with staying genuine and true to yourself is key.
My goal from the start, when I started making music professionally at the age of 15, was and is to make Arabic global which is not an easy mission but not impossible either. It’s so beautiful seeing the confirmation to keep me pushing & going.
As a public personality, you have the power to educate the world about where you come from, and the beauty and challenges of our region. How would you say your music is achieving this responsibility?
Being true to myself, my art, and my culture is incredibly important to me. My roots are a big part of who I am, and putting my own twist to them makes the journey exciting. Making this my priority means everything flows naturally, without forcing anything — it truly comes from my heart. My goal is to blend traditional sounds that I admire so much with an urban touch, because I believe combining these worlds creates something so beautiful, soulful, deep & filled with youth. I’m not afraid to merge these different perspectives. Music is an experiment, and I feel like there are no rules when it comes to it. Working hard and perfecting every detail is something I find deeply fulfilling. I think of the greatest movies I watch, that are genius, I want to think of music the same way.
Lastly, what is the legacy you hope to leave behind through your art?
I’d say I’m still figuring things out, continuing to grow and uncover new layers of myself and my sound. Our sound. My hope is to influence people and pave the way for the future of my culture, inspiring others with love and through all forms of art.
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