Sayed Sabrina live at the Desert Blues Revival — Dec 3, 2025.
Sayed Sabrina is set to captivate audiences once again when she takes the stage at The Desert Blues Revival on December 3, 2025. Known widely as one of America’s most exceptional independent vocalists, she continues to draw new listeners into her world with performances that are as heartfelt as they are unforgettable.
Based in Los Angeles, the singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist has built a career rooted in authenticity. Her most recent album, Thou Art That, stands as a deeply personal and autobiographical work—one she proudly describes as a fusion of the many musical influences that shaped her over the years. “I’ve incorporated the styles that have become a part of me,” Sabrina shares. “I’m grateful for the incredibly talented people who helped bring this project to life.” She is now preparing to return to the studio to begin work on her next creative chapter. Her story was also spotlighted in the acclaimed documentary Thou Art That: The Sayed Sabrina Story, released last year.
Sabrina’s rise as an artist is as compelling as her music. Raised by a Muslim father and Catholic mother, she grew up in a household where sound mattered more than doctrine. Her path took difficult turns—homelessness on the streets of Hollywood, years in the punk scene, and the challenges of becoming a teenage mother with nowhere to go. Yet these experiences didn’t hold her back; they became the foundation of her voice, a voice critics compare to Shakira with shades of Janis Joplin. Throughout her career, she has performed alongside some of music’s most revered figures, including B.B. King, Los Lobos, Dr. John, Jimmy Cliff, Leon Russell, and Tower of Power.
Audiences attending The Desert Blues Revival can expect a performance marked by emotional intensity and fearless expression. Joined by her band, Sabrina will explore a wide spectrum of sounds—blues, jazz, soul, funk, and rock—creating a night grounded in originality and powerful storytelling. Her artistry has drawn comparisons to Billie Holiday, Etta James, Roberta Flack, and Anita O’Day, further cementing her place among the most distinctive voices in contemporary music. Influenced by punk, gospel, reggae, and classic soul, her recordings remind listeners that timeless music continues to evolve through artists who approach it with honesty and depth.
What the Music World Says About Sayed Sabrina
“She’s a class act.” — Sugaray Rayford
“An amazing singer.” — B.B. King
“Just an incredible talent.” — Dr. John
“A tour de force… a true out-of-the-box artist.” — Music Connection Magazine
“A powerhouse with undeniable musicality.” — Harriet Kaplan, Live Music News & Review
Sayed Sabrina’s journey is one defined by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to truth in her music. Her reflections on life, family, and the experiences that shaped her voice offer an intimate look into the artist behind the stage persona. The following Q&A invites readers to explore her mindset, influences, and personal philosophy in her own words.
Talk about your music. What makes it uniquely yours?
Discussing my music feels somewhat strange to me, as I typically reserve those conversations for my fellow artists. It’s deeply personal, yet I believe it resonates uniquely with each listener—that’s my hope, at least. What makes my music truly mine is its origin; it’s a direct reflection of my thoughts and experiences. I created it without the influence of others, which makes the process both intimate and authentic. While I acknowledge there’s always room for improvement, I remind myself of the importance of believing in my own creativity. My art—regardless of its execution—represents me and my narrative. It’s a patchwork of my surroundings, my beliefs, and my identity, as diverse and multifaceted as I am.
Can you share your inspiration for the songs on your latest album?
My last album is a tapestry of eclectic influences, mirroring my own varied experiences. For instance, there's a song titled "Home is in Your Head," which was born from a moment when I found myself overthinking during a radio interview. Each track stems from different inspirations—some drawn from global stories, others from personal emotions like sadness or loss. When I write, I often find myself conversing with my own experiences, hoping to resonate with others. Music is a shared journey, and my intention is to uplift, comfort, or provoke thought through my compositions.
Where do you see your music going in the next five years?
I envision the future of my music as continual and consistent growth. I want to explore new territories while maintaining the essence that defines my sound.
If you could change one person's life through your music, which song would it be and why?
It's tough to pinpoint a specific song because the impact really depends on the individual and their personal experiences. Music is a profoundly personal journey, and I believe that different songs resonate in different ways.
When did you know you wanted to be a singer as a career?
For me, it was never a question of wanting to be a singer; I’ve always been one. Singing is simply an integral part of who I am. However, I did have to overcome my own insecurities to learn how to share my voice with others.
Which family member has been the most influential in your singing career?
My father has had the most significant influence on my singing career. He sang effortlessly and made it magical. We would sing and play music together—it was our love language.
How has your family helped you in your career?
My family has always pushed me to step out of my comfort zone. My husband not only supports me emotionally but also manages my career. My two daughters are strong women who have stood by me during my journey, just as I have supported them in their artistic pursuits.
What was the first song you ever heard?
I’d say the first song I ever heard was likely my father singing to me while I was still in the womb.
Which music artists have paved a path for you and your music?
I draw inspiration from early folk artists who sang about the human experience and the blues singers who eloquently expressed heartache. Many female artists from that era broke barriers and demonstrated that being an honest artist requires vulnerability. I have great respect for those songwriters who forged the way for artists like me.
Which music artists are your favorites and why?
My taste in music is too vast to narrow down to specific favorites. My appreciation spans across genres and styles, influenced by my mood, the time of day, and even the weather. Music is essential to life; without it, everything would feel incomplete.
If you were not a recording artist, what would you be doing?
If I weren't recording music, I would undoubtedly be pursuing some other form of art—perhaps acting, painting, dancing, or playing an instrument. Even then, I might still find a way to sing, just not in a recorded capacity.
How has your faith guided you into music?
My faith is intertwined with my music; it serves as my anchor, keeping me strong and alive alongside my family.
You’ve faced ups and downs in your personal life. How have those situations influenced your music?
My life experiences have shaped who I am today and enriched my songwriting, allowing me to craft some of my favorite lyrics.
Being a mom at a young age, how did that influence your songwriting?
Becoming a mother young has made me acutely aware of my music's potential impact on my children. Now, more than ever, I see the value in my work, realizing that my songs belong to my daughters too.
Was there ever a time you felt alone and scared?
Many times in my life have left me feeling alone and afraid, especially when I was responsible for another human being. It’s a profound kind of isolation that can be daunting.
Talk about your experience with homelessness and how that inspired you to be a singer-songwriter.
During my time of homelessness, I realized that even when I had nothing else, I still had music. It didn’t deter me from writing songs or singing.
What was the best part of that experience?
I discovered that we live in a colorful and unpredictable world. It taught me that those who were meant to help—like certain police officers—didn't always do so, while often the most unexpected individuals, like my fellow homeless people, showed me kindness. It was all a learning experience, filled with live music and incredible encounters that felt like little movies playing out every day.
What was the hardest part of that experience?
The hardest part was the in-between moments of day and night, especially the cold. As a young girl, I felt most vulnerable when trying to close my eyes at night.
What kind of hardships did you encounter?
I’ve faced many hardships in my life, and like many artists, I write about them as one would in a journal or to a friend.
What do you think most needy people should do to make themselves happier?
I believe that those who are in need should focus on giving. True happiness often comes from helping others before seeking to receive anything for ourselves. Ironically, the most needy people I see are often the wealthiest—they’re the needy greedy, while those with less often have more to give.
What are your strong points?
I’ve come to believe that we are all born with everything we need to succeed. It's about choosing the right paths to follow, even if they’re winding and challenging. I am exactly where I am meant to be at this moment.
What are your weak points?
I’m human, and humans are inherently flawed. I often find myself getting in my own way and discouraging myself, despite knowing I shouldn’t.
In today’s political climate, what role can your music play in healing this divide?
I hope to reach more listeners who resonate with my message. Music has the unique ability to foster understanding and connection.
How do you preserve your gift as a singer?
I continue to use it regularly, honing my skills and expressing myself through my art.
What is your health regime?
I strive to maintain my mental health alongside a balanced diet. Physical activity is a crucial part of that, especially since it’s intertwined with my love for music.
How do you manage your vocal ranges?
I prioritize care for my ears, nose, and throat to maintain my vocal abilities. It's about a holistic approach to music that requires minimal management outside of practice.
How do you see blues music staying relevant?
Blues will remain relevant as long as young people continue to discover and appreciate the genre. Just because it isn’t mass-produced like pop music doesn’t undermine its significance.
How did it feel to have a documentary made about you?
It felt surreal to have someone want to tell my story while I’m still in the early stages of my journey. It was incredibly validating and humbling to know that my work resonated with someone so deeply.
What was it like seeing your story on the silver screen?
I struggle to find the words to describe it. It was an overwhelming experience.
Are you excited about your upcoming show?
Absolutely! I have a fantastic band—humble yet incredibly talented—and we’ve been working hard on a compelling set.
Talk about your set for this show.
We’re working to include as many songs as possible that we want to share, aiming to create a memorable experience for the audience.
What is one thing that anyone can do to change the world?
Forgiveness. Practicing kindness, feeding the hungry, and sharing love can make a profound impact.
Do you have any regrets?
A kagillion. Doesn’t everybody? If you don’t, perhaps you haven’t cared deeply about anything.
Being a mother, what is one thing you want your children to accomplish?
I hope for my kids to grow into grounded, happy human beings. To me, that is the essence of true success; everything else will naturally fall into place.
What does the future hold for Sayed Sabrina?
More music to be written and recorded always. More performances to be played. More songs to be sung and more people to listen. This journey through my art reflects not just my individuality but also the universal experiences we all share. Thank you for joining me on this path.
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Stay connected with Sayed Sabrina’s latest announcements, releases, and performances by visiting her official website and following her on Facebook and Instagram.
Audiences can catch her live at The Desert Blues Revival on December 3, 2025, at the Cascade Lounge inside Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs. Secure your seats now by visiting JazzvillePalmSprings.com or calling (888) 999-1995 for full event information.
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