Singer-songwriter Faouzia has curated an International Women’s Day playlist exclusively for Billboard to celebrate the global day today (March 8).
Faouzia, who recently released the stirring "Minefields" in collaboration with John Legend, looks up to some of the biggest voices in pop -- including Rihanna, whose 2016 single “Needed Me” kicks off the playlist. “Rihanna has always been an inspiration of mine growing up and still to this day,” Faouzia tells Billboard of her first pick. “She is so strong, unique, and isn’t afraid to be herself.”
Female forces like Beyonce, Ariana Grande, Blackpink and Miley Cyrus (who just happened to release the official music video for “Angels Like You” today) also made the list.
As a powerhouse singer herself, it’s no surprise that Faouzia admires Grande, both for her artistry and “out-of-this-world” vocals. “I find it so amazing how she is able to touch on many different emotions and genres so seamlessly,” Faouzia explains.
Plus, look out for Lady Gaga (“She embodies true artistry and it is so very inspiring”) and Rosalia, who wholeheartedly embraces her roots, just as Faouzia does. “Seeing her be such a powerful force in the industry but still being so in touch with her true self is amazing,” she notes.
Listen to Faouzia’s International Women’s Day playlist below.
