It’s this mesmerizing combination of sounds that transports you into a magical soundscape—both liberating and inspiring. The driving rhythm of “Gaia” blends with the trance-like sounds of the traditional Qanun, evoking images of modern club nights while recalling sounds from another era. We feel the past and present merge, dancing together into the future. It all began when Lebanese artist Ghenwa Nemnom, at just 8 years old, eagerly began learning the Qanun—an instrument that originated during Mycenaean times around 1600 BC—which deeply fascinated her and continues to captivate her to this day.
Her journey took her from the National Lebanese Conservatory to Michigan, USA, where she studied Arts & Science at Oakland University. After years of travel and learning, she returned to her homeland to fully dedicate herself to music, aiming to fuse the old with the new. This is how Ghenwa’s distinctive sound was born—oriental tones of the Qanun mix seamlessly with musical genres like Classical, Latin, African, Deep House, and Groovy rhythms.
Founding her own label, Astarte, was the next logical step—not only because it was difficult to find a label that could accommodate this unique blend of sounds, but also to help other artists from the region showcase their music.
We spoke with the talented artist about the melancholy heard in the Qanun as a way of expressing deeper, often bittersweet emotions that are a core part of her identity, her views on the connection between nature and music, and her future goals.
Photography by ‘Tambo PR’
Hey Ghenwa! Lovely to talk to you. Where are you right now, and how are you today?
It is my pleasure to connect with you and to feature in C Heads.
The mixture of Qanun and electronic music has fascinated me for many years. It is the beauty of the traditional combined with the allure of the new that has such a mystical appeal. How did you come to mix them?
The Qanun, with its intricate melodies and historical significance, has always held a special place in my heart. I started learning the Qanun at the National Lebanese Conservatory, where I was deeply immersed in classical and traditional music. However, as I grew as a musician, I became increasingly curious about how traditional sounds could be transformed and reinterpreted in a contemporary context.
By blending these two genres, I aim to create music that resonates on multiple levels, inviting listeners to experience the depth of tradition while also exploring the innovative, boundless nature of modern soundscapes. This fusion allows me to honor my musical heritage while also pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in contemporary music.
“The melancholy you hear in the Qanun is a way of expressing those deeper, sometimes bittersweet feelings that are an integral part of me.”
The instrument always has something melancholy about it for me, too. Is that something that is also reflected in your character?
The Qanun does indeed carry a certain melancholy in its sound a reflective, almost wistful quality that resonates deeply with many listeners. It is interesting that you connect this with my character, as I believe that the music we create often mirrors aspects of who we are.
In my music, I try to capture a wide range of emotions, from joy and celebration to contemplation and even sadness. The melancholy you hear in the Qanun is a way of expressing those deeper, sometimes bittersweet feelings that are an integral part of me.
How does your new release “Gaia” reflect your views on the connection between nature and music?
“Gaia” is a deeply personal track that embodies my views on the profound connection between nature and music. The title itself, inspired by the ancient Greek goddess who personifies the Earth, reflects the idea that music, much like nature, is a living, breathing entity that can heal, inspire, and connect us to something greater than ourselves.
The track also reflects my concern for the environment and the urgent need to reconnect with and protect mother earth.
Some of your tracks have achieved over a million streams. How do you define success?
For me, success is a multifaceted concept that goes beyond numbers and streams, although reaching over a million streams is certainly a milestone to celebrate. I measure by the impact my music has on people and the connections it fosters.
“The title itself, reflects the idea that music, much like nature, is a living, breathing entity that can heal, inspire, and connect us to something greater than ourselves.”
You took several bold steps, including founding a record label. What were some of the most challenging decisions you faced?
The reason why I founded my own record label Astarte is because at the beginning and as a new talent it was challenging to find the perfect record label to house and support my music.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time to relax?
I enjoy Yoga and Meditation.
Beyond music, what are some dreams or goals you hope to achieve in the future?
Beyond music, helping young musicians in the region showcase their music is dear to my heart. It is one of the many reasons I created my own label.
The most important thing in life is?
Family.
Follow Ghenwa Nemnom for more:
instagram.com/ghenwa_nemnom
soundcloud.com/ghenwanemnom
open.spotify.com
facebook.com/ghenwanemnom
