DUBAI: The Jordanian singer-songwriter talks motherhood, identity, and authenticity.
I clearly remember my first solo performance, at five years old, in kindergarten. When I stepped on that stage, I felt something in my heart that was different and extremely special. It made me fall in love with theater and storytelling. I made myself a promise that day: that I would follow that feeling and passion forever. That’s what started it all. I took part in every talent show and musical I could, working my way up until I was the lead in “The Sound of Music” in high school.
Reina Khoury talked about motherhood, identity, and authenticity. (Supplied)
I love that I get to be creative every day, in different ways. Whether it’s finalizing a song or starting a new one from scratch, every step is interesting in its own way. It’s also not something I’m forced to do — it’s inherently me, I actually can’t not do it. During my pregnancy, it gave me life to work on my music. Going to the studio, recording up until eight months pregnant, even when I was out of breath, all gave me such good energy. My work is the way I express myself; it’s how I keep that part of me that’s an artist separate from the mother, the partner, the sister. It’s more than just work; it’s a part of my identity.
