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Photograph: (Grammys | Courtesy of Elyanna)
Elyanna, a 22-year-old Palestinian-Chilean singer, firmly believes in the power of self-expression. With millions of views on YouTube and a growing fan base, Elyanna has already made significant strides in the music industry. A collaboration with Coldplay, a historic performance at Coachella, and a European tour in 2024 all mark her rising fame. Through her music, she aims to spread awareness about her homeland and showcase its beauty, culture, and resilience.
A Deep Connection to Palestine
Born in Nazareth, Elyanna identifies strongly with her Palestinian heritage. Despite moving to California in 2017, Elyanna continues to feel a deep bond with Palestine, which is evident in both her words and her music.
She acknowledges the importance of using her platform to share the stories of her homeland. "If I have a voice and I have a platform, I can talk about where I come from and the beautiful things about back home, which is so needed," she said on BBC.
A Historic Performance at Coachella
Elyanna made history in April 2023 by becoming the first artist to perform an entire set in Arabic at the prestigious Coachella music festival.
However, later that year, the Israel-Palestine genocide escalated, prompting Elyanna to postpone her tour in solidarity with those affected. She publicly expressed her prayers for Gaza and chose to stand with her community during a difficult time. One of her songs, Olive Branch, co-written with her brother and mother, pays tribute to the people of Palestine, highlighting their endurance and struggle.
Standing Firm in Her Identity
In an industry where political neutrality is often encouraged, Elyanna remains brave in her pride for her heritage. Unlike some celebrities who face scrutiny for their stance on Middle Eastern conflicts, she feels no pressure to conform. She said she didn't feel pressured because she is very proud of where she comes from, who she is, and her identity. She also hopes to inspire young artists to embrace their backgrounds. She explained how its her mission as an artist.
From Dream to Reality: Collaboration with Coldplay
Elyanna's career took a remarkable turn when she performed with Coldplay at Glastonbury, alongside artists like Burna Boy and Little Simz. The opportunity was particularly meaningful for her, as she had dreamt of performing with the band since she was a teenager.
"I watched their show when I was 15 years old in San Diego with my siblings, and I was so inspired. I remember telling my sister: 'One day I feel like I'm going to perform with them.' I cannot believe that it's true," she recalls.
Working with Coldplay, whom she describes as "legends" and "humble in person," reinforced. She also played for the band in their India shows, and has now released a song inspired by Bollywood. The experience left her inspired, shaping her outlook on her musical journey.
A Unique Sound That Crosses Borders
Elyanna’s music is a fusion of Arabic pop, R&B, Latin rhythms, and jazz, creating a distinctive style that resonates with diverse audiences. Her album Woledto has been praised for its emotional depth, capturing themes of love, loss, and cultural identity.
She has also made history as the first artist to sing in Arabic on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and has sold out major venues, including The Wiltern in Los Angeles and KOKO in London. Her impact extends beyond music, as she has been on the covers of magazines such as Billboard Arabia, Vogue Arabia, and Rolling Stone.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Elyanna sees herself as more than just a performer—she aspires to be a source of inspiration for others. Influenced by legends like Amy Winehouse, Freddie Mercury, and Fairuz, she aims to bring the same energy and passion to her performances. With her Woledto tour set to span North America and Europe, Elyanna continues to carve her place in the global music scene, proving that cultural heritage, resistance and artistic innovation can go hand in hand.