Out of all places, the internet now serves as the ultimate location to scout talent. Offering an expansive and accessible stage to all, as well as a space where any form of creative expression can live and thrive, stumbling across hidden gems and untapped potential has become as easy as a click or a swipe on Instagram. And that’s exactly how we first came across the music of Lebanese pop singer Nurzy. Hailing from the Cedar State’s capital, the 26-year-old songstress seems to have hacked the algorithm as her videos can regularly be seen at the top of feeds and trending sounds online.
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That said, she remains forever loyal to her Levantine roots. A self-proclaimed product of her environment, she exclaims that nothing will ever really stand in between her and the place that raised her. “I think I subconsciously keep revolving my lyrics and identity around Lebanon. I am who I am because of my country, culture, language, and people. I want to brag about it and share it with the world,” the budding artist shares.
Initially, her first few steps in the music industry were as part of a now-disbanded trio, Carizma, alongside Shireen Abu Saad from Lebanon and Rana Ahmed from Egypt. Signed to Sony Music Middle East, back at the time of their heyday, the three up-and-comers were widely considered a sensation in the region’s soundscape, and even dubbed the first Arab teenage girl group to ever come to life. And although their departure from the scene saddened many, it did not discourage Nurzy to keep on going, only this time solo.
“Being part of Carizma was an experience. It taught me so much about the music industry and introduced me to so many people as well. We had so much fun on set and during concerts,” she recalled. “Certain circumstances made us all go our separate was, which brought its own load of pros and cons. But I do appreciate being able to write, compose, and release songs on my own terms and experiment with the lyrics, melodies, and genres, in the ways I want. Nonetheless, there are struggles that I previously shared with the rest of the group that I now have to face alone,” the Zaker singer reflected.
More than just your average artist, Nurzy also advocates for the music industry to be more inclusive towards those with auditory disabilities. Drawing from her expertise and background in audiology (the study of hearing), the young artist revealed working in a field where the sound of silence is often overlooked, though she’s turning up the volume on inclusivity and making sure everyone can feel apart.
“I want to be able to give back through my music and projects as I’m exposed to what people with hearing difficulties go through on a daily basis,” she confessed. “Current technologies have advanced to provide a great music-listening experience whether it’s through hearing aids or cochlear implants. From my side, I would also like to spread awareness among musicians and artists on how to protect their hearing to have longer and healthier careers,” she conclded.
