**Elyanna, a young Palestinian-Chilean singer, uses her platform to celebrate her heritage while navigating the complexities of recent events in the Middle East.**
**Elyanna's Journey: Championing Palestinian Identity Through Music**
**Elyanna's Journey: Championing Palestinian Identity Through Music**
**The Palestinian-Chilean artist shares her cultural roots, a dream collaboration with Coldplay, and lessons in patience on her European tour.**
Elyanna, a 22-year-old Palestinian-Chilean singer, is making waves in the music world with her powerful voice and vibrant performances. With millions of views on YouTube and a notable collaboration with the internationally acclaimed band Coldplay, Elyanna is keen to use her art to advocate for her roots and shed light on the beauty of her homeland.
Born in Nazareth, an Arab city in Israel, Elyanna embodies the complex identities of those descended from Palestinians who became Israeli citizens in 1948. "When you show your identity, you shine all the time," she remarked, emphasizing the significance of representation and authentic storytelling through her music.
In 2017, Elyanna relocated to California with her family but has maintained a strong emotional and cultural connection to Palestine. Making history in April 2023 as the first artist to perform an entire set in Arabic at Coachella, she continues to break barriers while spreading a message of love and solidarity through her music.
Following recent violent conflicts, including an unprecedented attack on Israel by Hamas, Elyanna paused her tour last year to stand in solidarity with those affected, particularly in Gaza. Her poignant song "Olive Branch," co-created with her family, reflects her commitment to acknowledging the struggles of her people.
Despite the pressures faced by many artists regarding political stance, Elyanna remains steadfast in her pride for her Palestinian heritage. "I don’t feel pressure because I am proud of where I come from," she stated, underscoring her mission to inspire her audience, particularly the youth, to embrace their identities.
Elyanna's musical style fuses elements of Arab pop, R&B, EDM, and jazz, addressing themes of love and resilience. Her recent collaboration with Coldplay at Glastonbury was a teenage dream fulfilled, as she recalled the inspiration she drew from their performances as a young girl. "I can’t believe it’s true," she shared, valuing the opportunity to work with artists she deeply admires.
As she resumes her tour, Elyanna speaks of the virtues of patience and trusting the artistic process. Her aspiration is not only to entertain but to inspire others, much like the artists who moved her: Amy Winehouse, Freddie Mercury, and the legendary Fairuz. She relishes performing in the UK, where she finds a strong connection with fellow Arab attendees eager to share their culture.
In a world fraught with division, Elyanna's journey represents a blend of artistry and activism, hoping to uplift and bring hope to others through her music and heritage.
