Voice behind Expo 2020 theme song: Mayssa Karaa on infusing Middle Eastern beats into modern global pop

Let’s admit it, we’re still humming This Is Our Time, the official theme song for Expo 2020 Dubai. We can’t get enough of it, be it adding the track to our Instagram reels or stories, or simply relishing it as we drive on and sing along. And a huge credit for that does go to the multi-octave voice Mayssa Karaa. The song was a worldwide collaborative effort spanning seven cities, two orchestras, and three main singers: Emirati legends Hussain Al-Jassmi and Almas, and Mayssa. An American citizen born in Beirut, Lebanon, Mayssa is also a songwriter, whose overarching musical message is about empowerment and overcoming adversity. Mayssa infuses Middle Eastern influences into modern global pop, melding an inspiring, unique, creative blend.

A graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, she was appointed as the Artistic Director of Berklee Abu Dhabi, Berklee’s newest outpost in the Middle East in January 2020. She released her debut album in Los Angeles in 2018, Simple Cure, and has been writing and releasing original music since. Mayssa’s latest release enforces her universal message of self-love with the new track, TiTi. Influenced by the Arabic saying “TiTi la rehti wala jiti”, a reminder that physical changes don’t alter who you are; the track is a timely message that real beauty lies within, no matter what changes we make to our physique.

“We have a perception that making a change in our physical appearance will impact who we are as people and how we see ourselves,” explains Mayssa. “But often the image we portray to the world conflicts with who we are deep down. It’s important to align who we are on the inside with who we are on the outside for good mental, physical and spiritual health. We must be true to ourselves,” she adds. In a conversation with the artist, we learn about her connections to the UAE and the various ways she’s exploring and strengthening her ties with the region.

UAE, the land of unique experiences

I moved to Abu Dhabi in 2020 after having lived in the US for over 14 years. Since my time here, I have been witnessing the atmosphere that the UAE is creating to enable the creativity of artists and empower their musical journeys. And I have had unique experiences so far since my move, from being a headliner at the Abu Dhabi Festival to singing the theme song, This is Our Time, to being the former artistic director of the “Firdaus” all-female orchestra to name a few…

The Arabic influences

I grew up in Lebanon listening to and performing classics from the Arab World, which remained an inspiration to me after leaving the country. The Arabic influences were always highlighted in my music as my vision was to introduce the Arabic culture to Western ears. This fusion truly represents my identity and the musical journeys I have encountered in my life while being exposed to diverse genres of music.