There’s a moment of raw electricity that you can often see in human form when an artist begins to see their career moving. A glint in the eye and fire in the belly. A creative hunger to keep moving, shifting, evolving, achieving. You can see it in the Palestinian singer Noël Kharman. You suspect it’s only the beginning.
As she releases her debut EP Mouthakerti, a collection of eight songs that tell a story of love and hope, Esquire Middle East met with the singer to discuss storytelling, dream collabs and the struggles faced by creative artists in Palestine.
Hey Noël, where are you right now?
Well, mentally I’m currently in a great place, thankfully, with stability in my life. Physically I’m based in Amman at the moment and planning to kick off the production of my new EP shortly.
What was the first thing you did today?
I went to the gym. I am trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Be honest, how long before you check your phone for the first time in the morning?
Truthfully, I tend to check it right after waking up. I’m actively working to break this habit, though it’s proving quite challenging. Curiosity drives, and I also need to check my work-related messages on WhatsApp and respond.
How soon is music a part of your day?
Music is a constant presence in my day. From the moment I wake up and get ready I have music playing. Even during activities like showering I always have music on. As I’m answering these questions there’s music playing in the background. I have a strong passion for listening to music, discovering new tracks that continually inspire me.
The EP, Mouthakerti,is a personal journey for you, how are those songs different to create—and perform—than something less connected to you?
Starting songs from scratch and pouring my personal experiences into them feels really good. It’s like an emotional journey that’s both enjoyable and real. The whole process is completely my own, with different steps that come together. Performing these songs is just as special. When I see the audience connecting, dancing, and singing along, it’s an amazing feeling. Their response adds emotion and meaning to my performance.
You became known for creating mashups between Western and Middle Eastern tracks. Who would you mix if you were to create one today?
Well, I’ve been listening a lot to Lana Del Rey lately, and while singing her song “Radio” I found myself naturally transitioning into my own song “Ma Ktafa”. It felt like they fit together perfectly, especially with a change in production and vibe. I’m really intrigued by the idea and would love to give it a try
Which artists—and tracks—are at the top of your repeat playlist on Spotify?
I have a really diverse taste in genres. Aside from Lana, I’m a fan of Of Monsters and Men, Massive Attack’s “Teardrop”, “Somebody Else” by The 1975, Michael Kiwanuka, Tamino, Angele, Stromae, and the list goes on. Of course I also dive into a lot of Arabic music, including Egyptian hip-hop, Marwan Moussa, Afroto, Wegz, and Marwan Pablo. I’m fond of Cairokee, Hamza Namira, and Moroccan, Algerian, and Tunisian artists like Manal, Nordo, Balti, and more. I also cherish the classics like Umm Kulthum, Fairouz, Ilham Al Madfai, Rachid Taha, and others. Plus, I enjoy immersing myself in EDM, techno, and house music.
You were brought up near Haifa. Just how difficult is it to thrive, globally, as a Middle Eastern creative living in Palestine?
Based on my experience, I’d say it’s quite challenging and restricted. In Palestine, there’s a lack of a strong foundation for Arabic art. Opportunities, collaborators, stages, and budgets are limited, and it’s difficult to establish connections within the Arab world from there. You’re faced with a choice: either leave or accept the limitations. However, in terms of inspiration, Palestine has always been a wellspring for me. The political landscape, the complex identity as a Palestinian from ’48, my family, nature, and the mix of emotions tied to the place—all of these elements have continuously fuelled my creativity.
Earlier you reeled off that included Arab artists, many of which have a global fanbase. Do you think there are more opportunities for Middle Eastern artists to make their mark now?
Absolutely! Things are really growing now. The new trend of blending Western and Eastern influences is making it easier. Everyone in the industry is embracing it, and it’s quite enjoyable. We, as Arab artists, are getting more recognition, and Arabic music in general is gaining a lot of attention. Western audiences are eager to experience Arab sounds. It’s an exciting time, and it’s only going to keep getting better until it becomes an international musical language.
OK, who’s your dream collaborator?
I have some really exciting collaborations in mind. I’d love to work with DJ Snake—I can really envision that partnership. Hamza Namira is another artist I admire for his authenticity. Collaborating with Cairokee would be fantastic as well. And I’m also keen on teaming up with a hip-hop artist from Egypt or Morocco; there are so many creative individuals on my radar.
So, what’s next?
Inshallah, there are a lot of exciting things ahead. I’m looking forward to releasing my next EP, putting on incredible shows, and possibly going on a tour. There’s a surge of creativity flowing from a clear perspective. But before anything else, I need a little break after completing my EP. To be honest, I think I’ve earned it.
Noël Kharman’s debut EP Mouthakerti is out now. Listen to it here