Sameen Khawaja

you & me

Hailing from Islamabad, Sameen Khawaja is an up-and-coming indie pop singer known for her captivating vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists and genres, Sameen’s music is a blend of pop, rock and electronic elements. “I have been passionate about singing and exploring various musical instruments for as far back as I can remember, but I began releasing my own songs two years ago,” elucidates Sameen. Her latest release, ‘Chup’ is becoming popular among the music aficionados. So, what is Sameen preoccupied with these days, to this end the artist says, “I am always juggling multiple projects, so it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what I’m working on at the moment.

However, one thing’s for sure - I am constantly delving into new ideas and pushing the boundaries to see what I'm truly capable of creating.” Let’s see what are the likes and dislikes of this talented artist who is also Spotify’s singer of the month. Read on…

What is your specialised field of singing?

I like to mix things up. I don’t want to limit myself to just one genre; I enjoy blending different styles into my music.

What is your most memorable concert to date?

That would be my first concert; there were over a thousand people in the audience, and it was my debut on a big stage. I remember it vividly; I was opening for Falak’s concert. Looking back, I can see how much I have grown since then. That young girl on the stage is still a part of me, but now there’s so much more to her.

How does it feel to be the Ambassador of the Month for EQUAL Pakistan?

It feels like receiving a special invitation to the heart of the music world. I am truly grateful for the chance to collaborate with talented artists and share positive vibes wherever I go on this exciting journey!

How important do you think such initiatives are for women artists of our country?

Spotify’s EQUAL Pakistan program is awesome for boosting gender equality in music. It shines a light on female artists, showing off their talent and making the music scene more diverse and inclusive in Pakistan. It’s a step in the right direction for sure.

Tell us about your song that is being featured on the EQUAL Pakistan playlist?

My latest release ‘Chup’ dives into the raw reality of life. It’s my perspective, but it's just one angle among many. Often, we get stuck in our own struggles, thinking everything is falling apart. But zoom out a bit, and you realise we are all in this together. Life’s like a giant test, and let’s face it - tests aren’t usually a walk in the park.

Have you released any music album so far?

I haven’t reached the phase of writing a whole album, but trust me, when that lightning bolt of inspiration hits, I’ll be dropping it on the world like a musical bombshell.

Top 3 songs in your playlist?

It kicks off with ‘I Killed the Kid’ by Haiden, then bumps to ‘Rolling in the Deep’ by Adele, and takes a chill turn with Billie Eilish's ‘What Was I Made For’. It’s like a rollercoaster of awesome tunes.

Your favourite international music celebrity?

Back in the day, I was all about Avril Lavigne, my walls were practically covered in posters. But now, Billie Eilish has taken over as my musical obsession. Alongside her, I’ve been digging into the vibes of artists like Sody and Haiden Henderson, adding some serious coolness to my playlist.

What was the role of music in your early years of life?

You know, when I was younger, my sister used to be my math teacher. It was during those study sessions that she would play Ahmed Jahanzeb’s songs on her old tape recorder. It became our little routine, and over time, I found that having music playing in the background made everything more enjoyable. It became my comfort exercise - I’d play music while working on anything, and it just felt right, like a familiar friend cheering me on.

Who was your favourite pop star when you were growing up?

Avril Lavigne all the way!

What was the first instrument that you learned to play?

Guitar.

You don’t like people who are…

Two faced.

You are afraid of…

Lizards. They totally give me the heebie-jeebies.

Your most valuable possession?

My art.

Are you a shopaholic?

Not really. Being very picky makes the entire process quite challenging for me.

What bores you the most?

Routine.

You are crazy about…

Life.

How do you like to spend your Sundays?

I like doing nothing on Sundays. Sitting and just existing...

What is your favourite tune nowadays?

I am currently hooked on the works of Karan Aujla, Shubh, and Diljit Dosanjh. Their songs capture so many different moods in one go, and once you get into the groove, it’s hard to shake off.

If you could have a musician tag along with you on tour, whom would you choose?

Count me in with my crew from Ali Mustafa Productions. Our vibes match perfectly, and that’s what music is all about!

Your favourite hangout?

Let me know if there’s a place with an amazing sunset - I’m in.

If you had access to a time machine, which era would you revisit?

Why go back in time when I’ve already binge-watched history? I’d rather fast forward to the future, where cars are flying and my time machine doubles as a coffee maker!

Do you agree that it is important to learn and understand old music and its history?

Knowing the history of what you’re into is key, whether it’s music or something else. It helps you figure out how to pitch in and make a difference in the community. It’s all part of the journey, and once you dive in, things start clicking into place. It’s like carrying your own little roadmap of experiences with you.

Song that always gets you on the dance floor?

Anything by Badshah.

What’s the last thing you bought?

A cup of coffee.

What books are on your bedside table?

‘The Project’, a novel by Courtney Summers.

First thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

Open my eyes.

When I am not working, I am usually…

Doing nothing honestly, I love doing nothing.

The most important relationship lesson you have learnt so far…

Love is not a feeling itself, it’s about care and respect and if you lack that in any relationship there’s no love.

You get super uncomfortable when…

It’s like trying to make a cat wear a hat - good luck getting me uncomfortable.

The biggest misconception about you is:

I don’t really concern myself with being misunderstood; the people close to me know who I am, and that’s what matters most. The rest is just background noise, honestly.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Five years from now, I’ll have a collection of broken guitar strings, a knack for writing catchy jingles, and a wardrobe that’s 90 per cent band t-shirts.