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. It is a call to action for women to embrace their true selves and their unique identity.
“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 really are deep down.
It’s a message that needs to be heard as increasing numbers of young women try to compete against the impossible-to-achieve – and highly airbrushed – definition of beauty portrayed across mainstream and social media. As Mayssa’s lyrics attest:
"Yeah your shadow, it will follow you wherever you go so embrace the things that make you special.”
Produced by American Egyptian/Sudanese producer Moez Dawad – also known as MO3Z – and with Mayssa’s perfectly delivered vocals sung in English and Arabic, ‘TiTi’ is a glorious mix of reggaeton, EDM and Arabic music that transcends borders and stylistic boundaries. Middle Eastern influences entwine with the track’s lilting beat to create a rhythmic fusion that’s light and breezy. Mayssa’s vocals take on an ethereal quality, as an Arabic oud plays in and out of the mix. Wrapped in rich, immersive production, ‘TiTi’ is a beautiful sound bath that enriches the soul.
Directed by Elie Fahed, the fun, clever and brilliantly shot video for the track pays tribute to a number of famous women from across the expanse of history – from the Mona Lisa and Venus to Cleopatra, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Frida Kahlo. “These women created iconic moments in the life of every woman,” says Mayssa. “They created a movement through art,” says Mayssa, who plays three of the roles. “The video is a tribute to them and to every woman inspired by them.”
An American citizen born in Beirut, Lebanon, Grammy-nominated Mayssa’s star continues to ascend following the release of her full-length English solo debut album ‘Simple Cure’, in 2019. Showcasing Mayssa’s unique blend of Western pop and Middle Eastern influences, tracks on the album veered from piano-based simplicity to sweeping electronic orchestration.
The video is a tribute to them and to every woman inspired by them
In the movie world, Mayssa’s voice graced the hit film American Hustle, with her Arabic version of ’60s classic ‘White Rabbit’ a standout track on the Grammy-nominated soundtrack album. Produced by Oscar-winning music producer AR Rahman, her song ‘Hayati’ hit the No.1 spot on Apple Music India after it featured in an Indian box-office smash.
Mayssa joined veteran pop star Hussain Al Jassmi and rising talent Almas on ‘This is Our Time’, the official theme song for Expo 2020 Dubai. Currently Artistic Director at Berklee College of music’s new center in Abu Dhabi, Mayssa’s message of self-love remains resolute as her career accelerates, and with ‘TiTi’ the singer-songwriter continues to define a new era of musical inclusion.
