Where are you from?
I’m Swedish/Georgian, I was born and raised in Sweden, my mother is from Sweden and my father from the republic of Georgia.
What is your earliest memory of music?
That would probably be Georgian folk songs played on my parents stereo speaker. I remember loving the melodies and fought it sounded so very beautiful.
When did you start being an artist?
I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember, when I was around 12 I started to write lyrics and around 15 I was playing the guitar and started to write my own songs.
How would you describe your style?
It’s very melodic, pop/rock with americana influences.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you often explore in your music?
Freedom and love, are the general two big main themes I would say, but I have many. Freedom to be yourself, explore who you truly are, breaking free from what’s holding you back. The love for yourself, family, friends and romantic love and also facing your fears.
What is the meaning behind your stage name?
Well actually, it is my real name, tough I have four names – Olga Sabina Chantouria Vamling.
What is the story behind your most famous song?
That would probably be Stranger, it’s about someone that you used to be very close to that you just don’t recognize anymore, there’s a distance and coldness to them, and they become like a stranger, you used to know very well.
What is the hardest thing about being an artist?
There are many things, so many insecurities and not taking things personal.
What’s the best thing about being an artist?
Having the possibility to express yourself and love what you are doing.
What are your goals for your music career?
Play more international festivals, grow my audience, have my music on more major radio stations as well as having the music in movies. There are many things really.
What do you like to do in your free time (outside of music)?
I love to travel, be out in nature, explore new places, learn new things, read books. And to create art, I’ve loved that since I was very small, I actually had my own art exhibition, also have long deep and fun conversations with good friends.
Do you get involved with charities or causes that are important to you?
Yes, I’ve even organized some of my own, for example in 2022 I organized a charity concert with international artists to raise aid to UNHCR due to the war in Ukraine.
What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?
I’m into the stock market since quite some time. Another thing is that I love fantasy films/books and I’ve even written one myself back in my teens.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Working though my to do lists, replying to emails, rehearsals, meetings and exercising.
Do you have any upcoming projects we can be excited about?
I’m planning more concerts for next years and I am working on some new music but it is yet a little secretive.
What are some of the standout tracks on your latest project?
My recent single “Echoes” a song about time, memories and love, is defiantly a track I’m very excited about, I’m very happy with the production and how it turned out.
What are your favorite topics to write about?
Freedom and love, again I would say, those are things I really care deeply for. I always write about things that evokes a strong emotion for me.
How do you deal with creative block or artist block?
I push through it, it’s usually thoughts playing games with your mind. Or I let it be for a while and write anything even if I I’m not happy with it just to move onwards.
What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
Do what you love, not what you’re told to love.
What was the best show or tour you have ever been on?
There are many, it’s hard to choose, I guess it would be the national final for Eurovision back in 2017 with my song Stranger.
What’s been your favorite moment of your career so far?
Again, hard to choose because there are many special moments, but the participation in the national final for Eurovision and in World Championship of Performing Arts in Hollywood, they really stand out for me.
Where can people find your music online?
I’m on all the major digital platforms out there, Spotify, Apple Music and Youtube. My website is www.sabinachantouria.com
