Why Social Media is important to singer and songwriter Saffron

Dubai is a city full of untapped musical talent. Every few weeks we come across another young singer who is performing at a gig on stage, has a growing YouTube channel or is recording an EP or album. Take Saffron for example and her single Chewed Up that was released with Universal Music MENA on February 23.
The UK native Saffron is a new comer to the music scene, but listening to her single it's pretty evident that not only does she have a promising career ahead of her but that she is a talented songwriter and singer. And Chewed Up, which was produced by Ben Lawson and recorded in Auckland, New Zealand at the Red Bull Studios, is the perfect reflection of her sound and talent.
"I wrote the track ahead of my trip to New Zealand and shared it with High Hoops for the creative input, he liked it a lot and it all hit from there," commented Saffron.
"(It's about) People think that they are better than you and judge you because they have nothing else better to judge you about," added Saffron.
City Times spoke to Safforn about her musical inspirations, performing on stage and growing up in Dubai.
We know that you were interested in music and song writing since childhood, but was there a defining moment that you knew this was the path you wanted to take?
I realised that I wanted to take this path when I was about twelve. My Dad took me to Tone Town Studios after listening to Dubai Eye and James Piecowaye said if you have talent come down to Tone Town Studios. I knew after working in a studio with Reiner Erlings and other producers that I felt completely at comfort and it's just something I've always wanted to do.
How has growing up in Dubai shaped your musical taste and career?
Personally, I do not think that Dubai has shaped my musical taste, just because of the internet. I find most of my music on YouTube and different streaming platforms. My career has changed so much ever since I started playing open mics in Jazz @ Pizza Express run by Abbo. Connections are really important here and I think if these connections were not made, I wouldn't be in the place I am today, especially if I was still living in the UK.
Who were your musical influences growing up?
My musical influences came from my dad. He used to blast out this band called The Doves. Subconsciously, I put layers into my music just like their songs would, it's weird. A lot of alternative music and somehow R&B and jazz from growing up has inspired me to make the music I make.
What's on your playlist right now? What are you listening to?
At the moment I'm listening to Dance by the Rolling Stones, then bizarrely Topper Top by Sir Spyro (it's this drum and bass song. I don't know why I like it!). Then Melt by Chet Faker and Sticky by Ravyn Lenae. I'm also into Wolf Alice's old album My Love Is Cool and SZA's new album Ctrl. Honestly, I could tell you more but that would mean this whole article would be what I'm listening to!
What is the process of writing a song for you? Is it planned or organic?
It's honestly so strange. I could be doing anything and randomly I feel an urge to write something or someone or something has to really irritate or upset me first. I just go upstairs and either already have the tune in my head and play it on my guitar or just make the beat on Logic Pro. Normally, if I'm so creative I can write and make a song in about two hours at home in my little bedroom studio. And I will not do anything else until it's finished.
How would you describe the Dubai music scene?
The music scene in Dubai is growing so much and I am so happy and excited for it. I'm in a band with my best friends called Flowershop and we have been gigging so much recently. It's really cool to see that youth is interested in the music scene here.
What school do you go to? How has your musical aspirations affected your studies?
I study at DESC and have just joined for sixth form this year. To be honest, all of my A level options are somehow creative and don't affect my musical aspirations at all. I intend to become a music producer when I am older so I take music technology at A level, therefore this will allow me to achieve my aspirations for the future.
Tell us about your single Chewed Up.
I wrote this song before I went out to New Zealand to record in Redbull studios for a week. It's basically about fake people and how gossip just spreads around so easily. High Hoops aka Jordan Arts was the artist I collaborated with. He sent me an email asking if I had any material and if I did to send it across. And it all started from a voice memo of me singing and playing guitar to a full track that we made in a day.
What was it like creating an album and then recording it?
It was amazing. I felt like I was at home and was so comfortable in my own environment. I knew what I wanted to do at an instant. So it wasn't difficult for me creatively. Everything just flowed.
Tell us about the experience of recording songs in New Zealand.
New Zealand is a cool country, that's all I can say. The environment didn't change the outcome of recording just because you're sheltered in a studio from 10-4 everyday.
What do you enjoy about performing live?
I enjoy the opportunity a lot. It makes me pump adrenaline and have a good time.
How important do you think social media is for an artist like yourself who is just starting out in the industry?
Social media is so important. I can't stress it more. It's how we social network now. It's an easier way of guiding people to streaming networks than telling someone in person.
Where can we see you performing live next and where can people hear your music online?
You can find my music on apple music, spotify, anghami and youtube etc. If you type in 'Saffron - Chewed Up'... Or follow my instagram @Saffronmusicc and click the link in my bio.

• Dubai