Photo: Adriana Hamui
Last week, Saudi singer Tamtam became one of the first from her country to perform at the Libera Music Awards, an annual event presented by the American Association of Independent Music. The LA-based artist arrived at the New York venue dressed in a dazzling, 70s-inspired look from Valentino, and performed her recent hit “Ismak“. This remarkable moment is part of TamTam’s distinctive journey that includes powerful music such as the song that first brought her to fame, “Gender Game”, and iconic collaborations, namely the 2022 Coca-Cola World Cup anthem in collaboration with Egyptian rapper Felukah and Mexican singer Danna Paola, remaking Queen’s 1986 hit “A Kind of Magic”.
Below, Tamtam opens up about her experience at the Libera Awards and what the future holds for her.
How did it feel to be among one of the first Saudi artists to perform at such an event?
I feel very grateful, Hamdillah. It’s no secret that making and performing music is my passion; so to get to do that while also representing my country is something I’m going to be forever grateful for.
Photo: Adriana Hamui
What did you love the most about your Valentino outfit for the occasion?
I got to wear the coolest brown shimmery outfit by Valentino for the Pianos showcase night. I felt like I came out of the 70s which is always a good feeling because it’s one of my favorite decades for music. And I hope I was able to transmit that in the show because I was feeling some Tina Turner meets Robert Plant energy.
For the Libera Awards ceremony, I wore the most beautiful Valentino gown. I love that the dress was covered from the neck down, with the most delicate beaded work. I felt very regal wearing that gorgeous dress. To me, Valentino represents elegance and grace while remaining innovative and original. That’s how I felt when I was wearing the pieces, and that’s always the inspiration for my style on and off stage.
Photo: Adriana Hamui
What was your favorite moment from the show?
My favorite moment from the showcase night, was after everyone finished their sets: DJ Hannah, Klinsh, Fulana, DJ Elfuego, and I; we took a photo outside with the music commission and everyone involved and I felt that we really took in this moment of writing a page in history together. It was beautiful.
My favorite moment from the awards ceremony was right before I got on the stage to perform, I was backstage with my best friend and stylist Arlen, and we were manifesting and praying together. I remember when I opened my eyes, I had tears and she was freaking out because I was about to go on and she kept fanning my face to dry the tears. It was one of those funny, special, and also powerful moments you don’t forget.
Photo: Adriana Hamui
You have been known to create socially conscious music in the past. Would you say that is an important part of your identity as an artist?
Absolutely. I believe in the power of music. It’s a form of art that brings people together. It’s the best way to express yourself without having to argue or get an answer back. It’s a blank canvas that you get to paint every day and share with the world freely. When I sit down to write something, I write about whatever I’m feeling that day: whether it’s about love, happiness, sadness, society, etc. It always helps to heal me, so I know that it’s going to heal a lot of people too. Music is a universal language!
What does the future hold for you? Are there any exciting things coming up?
Yes! I have a couple of singles followed by my debut album. I’m so excited. I can’t wait for the world to hear these new songs. I’ll also be doing a lot of live performances, unlike any others I’ve done in the past. The beginning of 2023 was a bit of a crushing moment for me, a lot of realizations and awakenings took place. Now we’re in the middle of the year and I’m already standing on my two feet, thank God. By the end of the year, I will be rising like a phoenix from the ashes. I can feel it already. I’m finally unapologetically me, and I’m ready for it.
Photo: Adriana Hamui
