We were lucky to catch up with Yasmeen Semaan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Yasmeen , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Yes, I’m incredibly grateful to be able to earn a full-time living from my music. It wasn’t like that from the start, though. It’s been a journey of passion, persistence, and a whole lot of learning along the way.

When I first discovered my love for music, I dove in headfirst without fully understanding the business side of things. I just knew I had a talent for writing songs, creating catchy melodies, and expressing myself through my voice. So, I started working with any producer who was willing to collaborate, and they would release my songs under their profile. This allowed me to tap into their existing audience and gain exposure.

While I’m more selective about who I work with now, that initial approach of putting my music out into the world as much as possible was crucial in building my foundation. It allowed me to experiment, refine my sound, and connect with listeners.

Looking back, there are definitely things I could have done to speed up the process. Understanding the music business from the get-go would have been helpful. Things like copyright, royalties, marketing, and building a brand are all essential components of a successful music career. I had to learn a lot of these things on the fly, which sometimes slowed me down.

However, I also believe that some of the challenges and setbacks I faced along the way were valuable learning experiences. They taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of staying true to my artistic vision.

Yasmeen , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Absolutely! Here’s a glimpse into my world as Mougleta:

Who I am: I’m Yasmeen Semaan, but you probably know me as Mougleta, a Canadian singer and songwriter making waves in the global pop/dance scene. I was born in Dubai but found my true home through music. My stage name, inspired by Mowgli from “The Jungle Book,” reflects my journey from feeling like a bit of a nomad to finding my place in the world through music.

How I got here: Music has always been my passion. From a young age, I was drawn to the power of melodies and lyrics to tell stories and evoke emotions. I started writing songs and performing whenever I could, and eventually, I took the leap to pursue music professionally.

What I offer: I create vibrant, empowering pop/dance music that weaves stories of heartbreak, joy, ambition, and magic. My songs are meant to resonate with listeners on a deep level, transporting them to a world where they can feel, dance, and dream.

Problems I solve & what sets me apart: I believe music has the power to heal, inspire, and connect people. My songs offer an escape from the everyday, a chance to celebrate life’s highs and lows, and a reminder that we’re all in this together. What sets me apart is my fearless authenticity. I’m not afraid to take risks, speak my mind, and embrace my individuality. This genuine spirit shines through in my music, creating a captivating and unforgettable energy.

What I’m most proud of: I’m incredibly proud of the connections I’ve made with listeners around the world. Seeing how my music has touched people’s lives and become a part of their journeys is the greatest reward. I’m also proud of the milestones I’ve achieved, like collaborating with amazing artists, having my music featured in TV shows and video games, and performing at incredible events like the Abu Dhabi Formula 1.

What I want you to know: I want potential fans and followers to know that my music is a safe space for everyone. It’s a place where you can be yourself, feel empowered, and find joy in the journey of life. I’m excited to continue sharing my music with the world and connecting with even more incredible people along the way.

Some additional details you might find interesting:

I have over 500 million streams on digital platforms.
I’ve had multiple songs on the top 40 German radio airplay charts.
I’ve collaborated with artists like Afrojack, Robin Schulz, and Topic.
My music has been featured on shows like ABC’s “The Baker and the Beauty” and in major ad campaigns.
I was BAFTA-nominated for Best Game Music for my work on “Alan Wake 2.”
I hope this gives you a better sense of who I am and what I do!

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound connection I get to forge with people through my music. Witnessing how my songs resonate with listeners, evoke emotions, and become a part of their lives is an incredible feeling. It’s a reminder that my music has the power to transcend boundaries and touch hearts, and that’s what truly fuels my passion.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my view, there are several key things society can do to best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem:

Value and Respect Creative Work: Recognize that art and creativity are not just hobbies but valuable contributions to society. This means paying fair wages for creative work, respecting copyright and intellectual property, and acknowledging the time, effort, and skill that go into creating art.

Provide Access to Funding and Resources: Artists often struggle to secure funding for their projects. Governments, foundations, and private organizations can play a crucial role by offering grants, scholarships, and affordable studio spaces. Additionally, providing access to resources like mentorship programs, business training, and legal advice can help artists navigate the complexities of the creative industry.

Integrate Arts into Education: Encourage creativity from a young age by incorporating arts education into school curricula. This not only fosters artistic talent but also helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are valuable in any field.

Create Platforms for Exposure: Provide opportunities for artists to showcase their work through public exhibitions, performances, and online platforms. This helps artists gain exposure, connect with audiences, and build their careers.

Support Arts Organizations: Cultural institutions like museums, galleries, and theaters play a vital role in nurturing the creative ecosystem. Supporting these organizations through donations, memberships, and attendance at events helps ensure their continued existence and the opportunities they provide for artists.

Foster a Culture of Appreciation: Encourage the public to engage with art and creativity. This can involve attending art events, purchasing artwork, and sharing creative content on social media. By creating a culture that values and appreciates art, we can help sustain the creative ecosystem and inspire future generations of artists.

Advocate for Policy Changes: Support policies that protect artists’ rights, promote fair compensation, and invest in arts and culture. This can involve contacting elected officials, participating in advocacy campaigns, and voting for candidates who prioritize the arts.

By taking these steps, society can create an environment where artists and creatives can thrive, contributing to a richer, more vibrant, and more innovative world for all.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mougleta.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mougleta/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mougleta/
• Twitter: https://x.com/Mougleta
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfpZ3_td7f0NQr4L8Phq-kA
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/mougleta

Image Credits

Shot by: Patrick mecherkany