Arabia's next idol
Performing ahead of Christina Aguilera tonight is 21-year-old American-Armenian singer Taleen. The artist is no stranger to the UAE and has performed in Abu Dhabi before. Emirates Business talked to her ahead of the show.
What can we expect from your show in Abu Dhabi?
A really high-energy performance with live instruments and a lot of Middle Eastern influences in the songs. I'm singing a lot of my own songs but there are two that the audience will recognise. One is a surprise for the crowd.
You shot to fame in 2004 when you released your first single in the UAE. How did that come about?
I was invited to sing at a classical event in Abu Dhabi by the Abu Dhabi Music Foundation. It was such a great opportunity because it opened my eyes to how amazing the UAE is. It's such an exciting place, which is why I always come back. The people are very welcoming and warm. They appreciate true talent.
What have you been up to?
Since then I've been working on my music and writing songs. I got a publishing deal with Foxx King/Bug music, which is Jamie Foxx's new company. I'm also going to be working with top A&R people and producers who have been responsible for the careers of Rihanna and Ne-yo. The creative team you are with is very important for the longevity of an artist. That has been a big priority.
How would you describe your sound?
Very upbeat with a lot of soul and pop influences. A lot of my songs have a Middle Eastern influence, because of my heritage. I also have a touch of funk in some of my songs because I'm a huge fan of James Brown.
Who else do you listen to?
My influences range from Aretha Franklin to Nirvana.
What about Arab artists?
I like Abdel Halim Hafez, Om Kalthom, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, as well as Fayrouz, Amr Diab and Nancy Ajram. Arabic music is emotional and melodic.
How did you get approached to open for Christina Aguilera?
The promoters for the show – specifically John Lickrish, managing partner for Flash – heard my music and were really impressed. They thought it would be a really good fit since I am compared to Christina Aguilera a lot.
Are you excited?
Words can't even tell you how I feel. I really think this is a dream and I'm going to wake up and be telling people that I was going to be opening for my favourite singer in the world! It's just a blessing I feel so fortunate and elated.
Have you met Christina?
I have not met her, no. I can't wait, though!
What's the first thing you plan to say to her?
I have changed the script of what I am going to say to Christina in my head a million times. I keep saying I'm going to be cool and just be like, "Hi, how are you", but I think I'll be so excited that I will want to give her a big hug! I've been such a big fan for so long. I'll tell her I look up to her. It's funny, because I have always wanted to go to a Christina Aguilera concert.
You've sung for the president of the USA and the Pope. Do you get star struck?
It's not being star struck; it's more excitement. These people are human like you and me but they have accomplished a lot. It's respect and admiration.
So what's next for you?
I'm working on my album, releasing a single and then going on a world tour. My music is very international so I would love to tour to different countries in the Middle East, Europe and Asia.