Imen Siar shines on her sophomore single and video Glitter and Gold — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
The opening lyric of Glitter and Gold sees Imen stating that she has been “underestimated from Day 1,” and that candid bravery is at the heart of the song. Imen takes on her previous outsider status, but more importantly is acutely determined not to be defined by it, as she forges ahead to a brighter future. And there’s no disputing her rising status when you hear that voice: equal measures of spirited soul and pop poise stirred into a message that overflows with the precious power of positive thinking. Simply: if you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong,Glitter and Gold is an anthem that can inspire anyone’s personal “glow up” and self-belief.
“Glitter and Gold was my first attempt at songwriting, and I wanted it to reflect my journey, how my view on life itself has changed, and how it’s made me the confident person I am today,” explains the 23-year-old London singer-songwriter, who co-wrote Glitter and Gold with the song’s producers: Rising hitmaker Jackson Hoffman and Grammy nominee Billy Mann (P!nk, Take That, John Legend). “ ‘Turning it all to glitter and gold, I’mma be going’ is my favourite line in the song. Growing up, I was heavily bullied and I made the decision at a young age to try to put a positive spin on the negative moments in my life. I wanted my lyrics to empower listeners to be able to do the same, without fear.”
The joy and self-empowerment that Glitter and Gold conveys comes across just as powerfully in its music video. Imen is clearly euphoric just as soon as she sings “I’m turning it all into glitter and gold” and that provides an irresistible energy. The video’s playful vibe is further amplified by placing Imen in the context of a photoshoot and styling session, a tone that’s also elevated with guest appearances from social media stars Alec Chambers, Jony Sios and Attis.
A major aspect of Imen’s star quality comes from her distinctive background. Born in Italy to a family of Moroccan heritage, she moved to England as a child. Her dreams of becoming a singer were at odds with her Muslim family, especially her father, an Imam at their local mosque. But Imen stayed true to herself, her family, and her religion by exploring topics and presenting an image which didn’t compromise those inner beliefs. While she is inspired by artists such as Lewis Capaldi, Alessia Cara, Faouzia and Jessie J, Imen realized that no major artists looked or sounded like she did. She vowed to show the world who she really is, not only for her own principles, but to inspire others. Her talent was discovered only when she started posting videos of herself singing into a mop during downtime as a waitress at Nando’s.
Her breakthrough moments soon followed. She debuted on the Arabic remix of David Guetta’s Family alongside Ty Dolla $ign and A Boogie wit da Hoodie, and then dropped her solo debut Lonely People — a song that she released in three different languages.
Watch the video for Glitter and Gold above, hear more from Imen Siar below, and follow her on Instagram, TikTok and Twitter.
