International pop with subtle Arab undertones, Therése Neaimé's unique brand of music, embodies her unusual roots.
Born in Stockholm to a Lebanese father and a Swedish mother, Neaimé recalls the immense role music and performing played in her early life.
“Music has always been at the centre of my life and I could dance before I could walk,'' she laughs.
“Having a father who was a dancer, it was always natural for me to perform in front of people. When I was 15, I joined the East Stockholm Gospel Choir.
"I was just so determined to be able to express myself more with my voice and lyrics that when I turned 20, I started taking voice lessons.''
Binding factor
“I believe it is a real blessing to belong to two completely different worlds,'' says the striking blonde singer.
“Even though I grew up in Sweden, I still have a big family in Lebanon that I try to visit at least once a year. I feel I am equally in touch with both worlds — something that is reflected in my music.''
Striving to become a successful artiste, Neaimé left the comforts of Sweden behind her to relocate to Hollywood.
Musical niche
“I entered the Musicians Institute, a renowned music school, and I was happier than ever,'' she says.
“This was probably the best decision I ever made, even though it felt difficult at the time. I studied music for two years, learnt how to write songs, developed as a singer and toured the live scene in Los Angeles and San Diego with my own band.''
Having forged her craft in Los Angeles, Neaimé felt ready to release her debut album. Titled Livin', the album was released in 2006 in Sweden, the Middle East and the US to great critical acclaim.
“It included five hit singles, among them Not Easy, which went straight to No 1 on the Swedish charts, and The Future, which climbed to No 13 in the AC Top 40 Radio Chart in the US,'' she says, with obvious pride.
Since then, Neaimé has not stopped for breath — touring through Europe, North America and the Middle East.
“In May 2008, I played for the troops on a five-day concert tour to Afghanistan,'' she says.
“Last summer I opened with my band for Simply Red at sold-out arenas in Cyprus and Spain.''
Now an experienced live performer, Neaimé's engaging relationship with her audience — which on occasion has included members of the Swedish Royal family — is mesmerising to watch.
“I believe my strength as a live performer is that I can tell a story about each and every song of mine,'' she says.
“The lyrics of my songs always come straight from my heart and from everyday life and I think people feel I am for real and that they are getting an authentic message from me.''
Despite the incredible highs, Neaimé hints there have also been difficult times.
“Although I received offers from larger labels, I decided to start my own record company, Future Records, in 2006 so that I could retain my independence and the rights to my music,'' she explains.
“It is tough and involves a lot of hard work but it is a great reward to feel you're in control of your own career. I think one of my biggest assets as a person and as an artiste is that I seldom stay down for very long.
"When you have a mission you just keep going, even through tough times. I try to never think about how difficult it is, otherwise I would probably never have started in the first place.''
Love for Dubai
Dubai has had a pivotal role in Neaimé's career and the singer believes the emirate has enabled her to grow as an artiste.
“My first promotion tour took me to Dubai in the autumn of 2006 and since then I have been coming back to Dubai frequently, staying longer every time,'' she says.
“I love the positive attitude of the people and this is a place where everything seems possible. Dubai has helped me build a stronger foundation for my career and more importantly, it has generated great interest in my music from all around the world.''
Neaimé recently completed a six-week stint of evening performances at Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa, where she also put the finishing touches to her second album and recorded a music video on the resort's stunning beach.
Having accomplished so much, what is next? “September 2009 is my main focus,'' she says.
“I have been working with top international producers in Los Angeles, Stockholm and Berlin and I am signing a licensing deal with AGR Records/Universal Music Germany for a worldwide release.
"My goal is to continue my journey, keep inspiring people around me and spread my music by travelling the world.''
