Aug 2010
In this issue:
Features
Original Zin
Dancer turned TV host turned singer, everything is coming up roses for Moroccan singer Zindiali
Issue: May, 2008
She sings “Yom Wara Yom”. But not the Cheb Mami and Samira Said song. Zindiali, a Moroccan by way of Michigan, wrote this one herself, danced her way through an orgy of belly-dancing in the video and, at several points, could easily be confused for a Paris Hilton after a particularly savage credit-card splurge in the nearest souq. But an Arabic Christine Aguilera is perhaps a more generous comparison – beauty isn’t much in music without talent. Thankfully, Zindiali seems to have more than enough of both.
NOX: What’s the plan for 2008?
Zindiali: I am planning a trip to Dubai very soon, where I start my promotional campaign for my single “Yom Wara Yom”, then I am off to Egypt and Lebanon, so you should expect to see more of me in the near future! I am also looking to finish recording my songs in the Middle East to stay true to the Arabic sound. So 2008 is going to be a very eventful year!
NOX: Do you consider yourself different from other Arab pop acts in that you write a lot of your own music, including “Yom Wara Yom”?
Zindiali: I definitely consider myself as a different artist; I want to introduce the Arab world to a new genre of performers – incorporating my Western style with my Moroccan heritage to create a mesmerising experience on stage. But being able to write my own lyrics has helped me develop as an artist; you are more connected and emotionally attached to your songs when you create them yourself. Life is full of surprises so I doubt that I would be writing about the same recurring theme.
NOX: So, the dancing is very… appealing! How have you dealt with the cultural barriers and demands of being so seductive in the public eye?
Zindiali: I definitely express myself through dancing; it is my way to show my true emotions from within. Besides, I come from a culture where belly dancing is the native dance form, and we all know that belly dancing is the most seductive dance in the world! So how can I take away from that? I think being seductive is a virtue not an act… Some people don’t have to work at it they naturally have a certain sex appeal.
NOX: Arabia to Michigan isn’t exactly an unusual journey – how did you make yours from Casablanca?
Zindiali: I was born and raised in Casablanca to a very modern, middle class family. We would spend every summer vacation in Europe, which made my parents open minded to the idea of me continuing my studies abroad. At 17, I was accepted into a prestigious engineering university in Bordeaux, but I decided I wanted to venture to the United States and practice the language, which I loved. We had family friends in Washington DC, so I spent some time there before moving to New York, and then eventually Michigan.
NOX: So, when you’re in the States, when does your “Arabness” erupt?
Zindiali: I am always going to be an Arab at heart no matter what part of the world I reside in! I chose to move to Michigan as it’s one of the biggest Arab American concentrations in the States, just to be closer to my culture. So I guess my Arabness shows on my day to day life.
NOX: When did you first get into the whole performing thing? And what was your first big break?
Zindiali: I have always been told that I had an “it” factor since I was a child; when I was 5 years-old I was approached to participate in a TV commercial. Then during my early visit to the United States I was always chased by talent scouts for modelling. During Junior High, I participated in any talent show, whether a school play or a dance routine. But it wasn’t till I met up with Sam Fisher, producer to Daddy Yankee, that I realised that I enjoyed singing almost as much; I started writing songs that incorporated my cultures with a fusion of Latin, hip-hop and pop.
NOX: So, Zin, are you dating anyone right now...? And what would a NOX reader – urbane, sophisticated, deeply wealthy – have to have to get a “yes”?
Zindiali: I am single so there is no one in my life at the moment. For a person to catch my eye, they have to be confident and have a charismatic personality. Oh yeah, and a good sense of humor…!
NOX: What's the best compliment you’ve ever been given? And we always ask the hot singers this, any marriage offers from Cairo?
Zindiali: Hmm….the best compliment that I have ever been given is: you are very smart! I really enjoy when people point out something outside of the obvious. But as far as gifts, some of the most thoughtful gifts have been from my fans whether it’s a poster they have made for me or just their sweet comments and words of encouragement make my day… But so far no marriage proposals from Cairo, but I will keep you posted when it happens!
