Feb 7, 2025 – Today, the gold-selling Netherlands-born LA-based Iraqi-Syrian alt-pop artist Wafia releases her debut album Promised Land. The album was executive produced by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Sabrina Claudio. It includes previous releases like the experimental “Distant,” the wistful “Say It To The Moon,” “Sad Sh*t,” the levitating “Crystal Ball,” lilting “House Down,” the upbeat track “Background,” recent single “Something” and today’s release day focus track “Big Thoughts.”
Promised Land reflects Wafia's journey through displacement, survival, and the migrant experience. Guided by her mother’s belief that "everything is already written," it offers peace and acceptance amid life's uncertainties, inviting listeners to find solace in her deeply personal yet relatable storytelling. Wafia moved frequently during her upbringing, enduring periods of homelessness and Islamophobia, which deeply influenced her sense of belonging. The album weaves themes of resilience and hope, drawing from her experiences as a queer Arab woman.
“Promised Land is defined to me by what is meant for you will be, and nothing that’s meant for you can be taken away. It’s the seeds of hope that comes with immigration and major change,” says Wafia. “It looks like a place of optimism and bounty and nourishment - like stepping into your older sister’s garden or home, where you’ll be comforted and mothered and tended to. It’s a hopeful sanctuary for when you need it most.”
The sense of wonder that underscores much of Promised Land is undeniable. “I couldn’t imagine making the album any other way,” says Wafia, who worked with executive producer Sabrina Claudio.
Speaking on her collaboration with Wafia, Sabrina details, “Within a month we created Promised Land. We spent everyday working together. We laughed, cried, ate (a lot), spilled piping hot tea, danced, flea marketed, the girls were bonding!!! I knew we'd inevitably become close during this process, but this is a bond I've not experienced as a woman with another artist… Waf, thank you for trusting me.”
In addition to celebrating hope, Promised Land is a testament to survival.
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