Hayat Selim is an Egyptian‑born, London‑based composer and singer. Hayat Selim is redefining identity through sound. Hayat’s music blends Western cinematic orchestration with world music influences, electronic/nature soundscapes, and voice. She blends traditional and modern music. Her story is not only about music; it is about identity and the courage to cross boundaries.
A Journey Rooted in Cairo, Blossoming Abroad
Hayat’s journey began in Cairo, where her education at the German school DSB immersed her in classical music and the arts from an early age.
“I sang in classical choirs and played classical piano from the age of 9, but I also went through phases of rock, pop, and hip hop as a teenager. I loved acting as well and was part of the acting club in my school,” shares Hayat.
At 17, she took her first step as a soloist, and by her last year of school, she was turning poetry into songs.
“In my last year of school, I began turning my poetry into songs, which became the beginning of my journey in composition and songwriting.”
In 2017, she received a full scholarship to pursue a master’s in composition for screen at the Royal College of Music.
“I studied under Emmy-nominated Maurizio Malagnini and Enrica Sciandrone, who took my film scoring skills to a whole different level.”
Bridging Egyptian and British Identities
Hayat’s music isn’t fully Eastern or fully Western. Her upbringing gave her a Western foundation, but moving to the UK opened doors to Middle Eastern vocal styles.
“With time, I developed a sound that naturally blends both worlds in a way that feels accessible.”
“When I sing in Middle Eastern style, it is often closer to Fairuz, for example, not fully traditional with microtones but Eastern enough for Hollywood films,” adds Hayat.
In 2023, she was the Middle Eastern soloist for Karl Jenkins’ Stabat Mater, where the orchestra and choir performed in classical style while her vocals carried Eastern inflections.
Finding Her Unique Voice
Hayat always loved exploring different genres and sounds, finding joy in blending cultures through music. Growing up, she explains, “I have also written pure Western classical music because I grew up inspired by composers like John Williams and Hans Zimmer”.
Later, she discovered her own unique style, one that reflects her openness to many influences.
“I grew to love blending influences from different cultures into my own sound.” Shares Hayat.
From Disney to GEM London
Hayat’s recent work shows her diversity. In 2022, she composed and performed music for the Grand Egyptian Museum’s opening celebrations in London.
“I not only wrote the music but also added my cinematic voice to most of the soundtracks. It had always been a dream of mine to be part of the museum celebrations.”
At the opening, Hayat performed Hesham Nazih’s Hymn of Greatness, her own Priestess of Hathor, and a medley from the film Dandara.
“The thrill of that night was not only performing at such an iconic event but also singing pieces I had composed and arranged.”
In 2023, she co‑composed the score for Disney’s Habibi Baba Boom, blending German, Middle Eastern, and Turkish influences.
“I fell in love with bringing this iconic Egyptian genre into a fused score with Western styles. The music was often praised for its diversity and creativity.”
A Woman’s Voice in a Male‑Dominated Industry
Hayat’s path reflects the challenges of being a woman in composition and production. Early in her career, she faced skepticism when asserting herself in studios or negotiating fees. But she has also seen change.
“But I have also witnessed real progress. Compared to 2015, there is a noticeable shift: more women are composing, engineering, producing, and making their mark in all kinds of musical fields, and there is genuine support from many colleagues, men and women alike.”
Looking Ahead
Now, Hayat is focusing on performance. With her new band Ankhaya, she is exploring a sound that merges neoclassical influences with pop, hip hop, and electronic music.
“My first single, Tirara Ya Beirut, under my new stage name, is now out on all platforms, and I am excited to share more of that sound, which feels truer to me at this stage of my career.”
Hayat Selim is redefining identity through sound. Her identity is not about choosing one world over another, but about weaving them together into something uniquely her own. With her voice and compositions reaching Disney, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and international stages, Hayat Selim shows that music can be fluid, fearless, and profoundly creative.