Three years after captivating a region in Star Academy, Egyptian singer Marwa Nasr is ready for the big stage
We are proud to admit that the NOX staff does not follow Star Academy. We have no idea how many seasons have been made, we have no idea what the word “nominee” means, and we couldn’t care less whether it’s a Zionist conspiracy to distract the Arab youth or not. The one thing we are strongly in favour of, though, is a hot Arab girl with a voice that won’t require us to watch her videos with the sound down. Marwa Nasr was a Star Academy Season 3 finalist, and despite taking some flak for allegedly misrepresenting Egyptian women, she became a firm fan’s favourite. Unfortunately, the politics of the show forced her out of the competition, and then out of the spotlight for almost three years. With a degree in music, the ability to play the piano and the oud competently, and with perhaps a few less kilogrammes, she was always destined for a comeback. And now that she has a new album and a couple of videos, Marwa Nasr’s presence will soon be felt.
NOX: What’s going on with the Avril Lavigne look?
Marwa Nasr: My new video “Nefsi” definitely features me in a new look and I would say a daring one! It is a little different than the typical style you see often in Arabic music and there is no doubt it has some foreign influence; the smokey eyes and, sure, the Avril Lavigne style. Look at English and foreign videos in general, each one has something different and that’s exactly how I like it. I am not looking to offend anyone, but I definitely want to bring something new to the table.
NOX: You are best known for Star Academy, so how important was the show in launching your career?
MN: Star Academy was my main opportunity to get into show business. I already had a higher degree in music from the Art Institute in Egypt, but Star Academy taught me how to manage my career and how to deal with the complexity of life – on both personal and professional levels.
NOX: What do you think about the show now? Is it true other “factors” play too big a role in deciding the winner?
MN: I really love it. I am convinced it’s a great idea and as I said it taught me a lot and gave me a lot of good habits. The reason the show is this successful is because it creates a certain bond between the Arab countries. Of course, we all have to admit that success in the show depends on the charisma of the participant more than his or her talent.
NOX: Did you have any awkward moments after someone recognised you on the street?
MN: Well, when I was on Star Academy a guy approached me and started telling me how much he loves me. But I was with my father, and it took me a lot of effort to convince him that I did not know that guy and he is not my boyfriend!
NOX: So what does it take for a guy to impress you?
MN: He has to be a real man. A no-nonsense man who does not even joke around. Of course, he has to be caring and loving and understanding. He does not have to be very good looking, but he has to be extra chic and stylish.
NOX: You had a few questions about your weight. You look great to us, but is it something you’re aware of?
MN: I am in a constant fight against the chocolate bar! I have lost 16kg and I am planning to keep them off. The problem is when I get depressed I immediately run to chocolate. I try to limit my intake to once or twice a week.
NOX: That’s it? Are you sure there are no one else you want to send a shout out to?
MN: Oh, wait, yeah... a very big thank you to my sister and manager Maysa Nasr. Can’t leave her out, can I?
For a full version of this article, see NOX40.
