The world is embracing a new age of female-led RnB excellence via the likes of Jorja Smith, Ella Mai and Mahalia. Here in Sydney, Egyptian-born singer-songwriter Mariam Sawires is leading the charge.

From a young age, Mariam Sawires took to songwriting as a means of self-expression. Born in Egypt and raised in Sydney’s Inner West, her upbringing was characterised by the hustle and bustle of living in a creative multi-generational home. Childhood piano lessons, traditional Arabic songs played on her father’s tabla, and the heyday sounds of Lauryn Hill, Stevie Wonder and Erykah Badu all inform Sawires’ artistic approach.

Sawires’ debut single Choose sees her hit the ground running. Silky-smooth RnB vocals are masterfully woven over a dulled but still pulsating two-step beat. Simultaneously speaking to what is currently dominating both RnB and dance charts, Choose is as dreamy as it is danceable.

Written in a 17th-century French castle-turned music studio and inspired by a visit from a family member, Sawires made Choose as a reminder to take time out of the chaos of life to focus on inner peace and clarity. She says Choose is about having the strength to face up to the truth, and faith that you’ll know what is best.

Watch the video clip for Choose below:

Tune into Up For It every Monday morning to meet your new Independent Artist of the Week!