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The girl next door

“WE SHOULD ALL follow our own paths,” she said, her voice shaking with emotion.

“Most of us try to follow in the footsteps of others - whether they are siblings, parents, or friends - but we never ask ourselves what we want.”

With her big, red curly hair - a refreshing change from the assembly line of typical Lebanese pop stars – Myriam Fares believes that talent and passion are essential for young Arab youth in any facet they choose to follow.

The quintessential ‘girl next door’, she ignited the music world to become a true force in the industry, and is easily one of the most-liked artists to appear in years.

“There is no difference between my stardom and normalcy, because we are one. I am still a down-to-earth girl and fame has not changed me. I don’t walk around with arrogance because I know where I come from and who I am,” she said.

Having recently joined a unique campaign with Sunsilk, Fares is promoting its ‘Life Can’t Wait’ theme, which encourages young girls to chase after what they really want.

“This is bigger than just an advertisement because it speaks directly to young women. It is promoting a positive influence that encourages them to fulfil their dreams and expectations,” she said.

Featured alongside iconic superstars such as Madonna and Shakira, girls are encouraged to write in their own personal inspiring stories to www.lifecantwait.com to win a day spent with Fares.

“I am just one of many women who refused to wait for ‘life’ to happen, instead I chased after what I want,” she said. “Young women - and men - should take life into their own hands until they reach their potential.”

In a culture dominated by family influence, Fares knows the difficulties facing young people in choosing a career. The young music prodigy has seen first-hand those closest around her continue into fields they had no passion for.

“I don’t want to offend parents out there that want to guide and mould their children, but they have to allow them to follow their own path,” she said.

“Each one of us is given a gift and passion, and we need to utilise these talents rather than ignoring them just to please others.”

On the heels of her third studio album, ‘Bet oul Eih’ (You tell me), she has proven herself to be a permanent fixture in the Arab music world. With no dramatic rivalries or feuds, she has relied solely on her talents and encouraged others to do the same.

“The most important relationship to cultivate is the one with yourself,” she said.

“God gave me a gift and I worked hard to use it. I studied music, dance without forgetting about my academics. I took every advantage of every chance and opportunity.”

In a world of divas, Fares refuses to fall into the fame trap. Hoping to become a symbol of female independence, her infectious smile is captivating youth and inspiring a new generation of thinkers and talent.

“With all my heart, I want to give everything I can for the Middle East, and I hope I can make it proud,” she said.

As for her music, Fares is able to delve into different genres seamlessly, exciting fans across the region.

“As my music changes, fans seem to follow and support me,” she claimed.

“A lot of the songs on my album were not even released as singles, but they became huge fan favourites. On this latest album I plan on releasing video clips for most of the tracks because I dedicated so much time and effort to them.”

“I have never used a choreographer for any of my dance moves because I like to move naturally move to my music, merging my two greatest passions.”

For Fares, life should never have to wait. With no plans of slowing down, she says that the circus of the music industry can be daunting, but the price is well worth it to be able to do what you want.

“When I am on stage, it is the best feeling in my life… I am journeying on a beautiful road, really.”

kadry@khaleejtimes.com