In 2013 singer Lina made history by becoming the firs ever American-Palestinian to win The Voice Israel, and since her triumph she has gained a strong fanbase around the world and has recently released her catchy single ‘Can’t Keep Falling‘.
Here we speak to the rising star about her The Voice experience, new single, dream collaborations and more.
You are the first American-Palestinian to ever win The Voice Israel how does that feel?
It felt amazing to win The Voice. It’s the first big music appearance I ever did, so I felt very proud as a singer. As a Palestinian who won by the public votes – it was huge. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the [one of the] most ?famous” conflicts in the world, and a very painful one. Being chosen by both Palestinians and Israelis to win The Voice is solid proof that peace will eventually come from the people and not governments. So I’m hopeful…
How did you decide to enter The Voice?
I grew up watching American Idol and was a big fan. Since I’m American, I wanted to travel to the US and participate, but my parents thought I was too young to go there alone. So I registered to the Voice Israel. It was one of the best decisions I’ve even made.
Do you think your roots have helped shape your musical style?
Yes of course. Except of spending most of my teenage years watching MTV, my parents played some traditional Arabic music. I always add some ethnic add-lips and riffs, I LOVE how it sounds when combined with pop music, and I feel like it makes my music stand out in the international market.
When did you decide to pursue music as a career?
When I was 16, it was during a piano lesson, I sang and played for my piano teacher. She was overwhelmed and made me perform the songs in front of everyone in the conservatory! I was surprised with the positive reactions I got from everyone. A year later I went to see a concert and when the music started playing I felt like my body and soul have met and I knew that this is what I want to do in life. Thereafter I was accepted to the Voice and as they say; the rest is history :)
Growing up who inspired you to sing?
Beyonce, Destiny’s Child, Beyonce. She’s always been on the top of my list and she’ll always be! Most hard working, and perfectionist out there. Huge inspiration!
Your new single is doing extremely well, how excited by the reaction are you?
What do you mean excited,,, I’m on cloud 9! I’m so happy and grateful! When I co-wrote the song with the amazing Maegan Cottone and Knightstarr, I couldn’t get the song out of my head. I loved it so much and couldn’t wait to release it. Now it’s finally out, and it topped #1 on iTunes Israel after less than 48 hours from the release! It’s on MTV playlist and it gets amazing reviews from all over the world. I’ve been receiving tons of fan videos, covering and dancing it, anything you can imagine (go watch my Instagram stories! I post a lot of those.
What is the inspiration behind your new single?
Well, it’s a really fun and cool song, talking about; on and off relationship, with the perfect kind of guy that is the opposite type. How we choose someone who is different from us but not always good for us. And the message is not to take things too seriously.
What advice would you give to anyone entering The Voice?
Take everything in proportions and remember that it’s only a competition! Enjoy every moment, because it will end before you notice.
If you could collaborate with anyone who would you choose?
It’s so hard to choose, but I would go for Ed Sheeran. He’s a genius! I’m in love with his body :) and his mind. I would marry him right away!!! Yes I will!!!
What do you hope to achieve in the next ten years?
I want to keep on doing what I do now, writing good music, record, perform, being with fans, reach more and more people with my music and of course to have fun and enjoy life. And I hope to do it for the next 50 years.
Make sure you follow Lina on Twitter @LinaMOfficial to keep up to date with all her latest news!
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