Calvin Harris

By Gisel Habibnejad International music artist, Ayah Marar, leaves a unique trace of talent on everything she touches. Her talent can be found in all aspects of the industry, from songwriting to collaborations with Calvin Harris. Although she was born in Jordan, her musical abilities grew when she moved to the UK – at the tender age of seventeen. Everything she has to thank for her success throughout her musical journey can be heard within each of her songs. MSM sits down with Ayah to discuss her journey: MSM: When did you realize you wanted to pursue music professionally? AM: I have always been involved in music, I got my Grade 8 classical piano at 16 and was a ballet dancer for 10 years. When I moved to the UK I got involved in running a DnB [drum and bass] night and a label, it was a natural progression! MSM: What was it like moving to the UK from Jordan and living with a newfound independence at the age of 17? AM: I loved it. It allowed me to explore music and friendships in a way I had never before. I loved growing up in the Middle East but London is definitely home now. MSM: Who are your biggest musical influences? AM: I adore music and am inspired by it however it comes. If something is done with love, you can feel it regardless of technical execution. I adore Badu, Robyn, Michael, Stevie, Hathaway, Ella, so much inspiration in music it’s hard to pinpoint! MSM: How have your Jordanian roots and UK living experiences influenced your music and lyrical writing style? AM: I’m not sure that they have really, my experiences are personal, they wouldn’t be affected by where I am, more what I’m feeling and who I’m around. MSM: How have you managed to balance and co-exist in the underground and mainstream musical worlds? AM: Well, it’s a daily grind and I’m always trying to find ways to keep it balanced. I’ve been lucky in my collaborations and the people I have worked with, my team and I liaise daily about how we keep things relevant and progressive, and most importantly, entertaining. MSM: Tell us about the first time you met Calvin Harris. What is it like working with him? AM: Calvin and I met at a record shop I worked at in the early 2000s. He needed a place to live and I had a spare room, we lived and worked together and have been buddies ever since. I feature on his last two albums. I’m so proud of him. MSM: What was the inspiration behind your latest song, “Bass Soldier?” AM: “Bass Soldiers” is a nod to all the people who have kept DnB [drum and bass] alive and who continue to love their work and their scene. We are in this together, man. MSM: What is in store for your fans in 2015? AM: Lots of music, shows, and possibly a second album! Watch this space! MSM: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? AM: Keep supporting independent music and feel free to say ‘hello’ on my socials! Photography by ANDREW ATTAH Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.