Sa'ra Charismata

Protest music comes in all shapes and sizes - but SA’RAs unique melding of 80s synths, varied yet undeniably catchy vocal melodies, and conscious lyrics is something which hasn’t been heard before. SA’RA CHARISMATA spans topics of mental health, racism and gender inequality through the medium of music, and her new song depicting her struggle with anxiety, LIFE IS NOT ABOUT CONTROL, is no exception.

LIFE IS NOT ABOUT CONTROL is a strong, feel good pop tune in true Swedish fashion. Charismata describes it as a celebration of life, but one which also warns of its pitfalls. Coming at the topic of overcoming anxiety from the perspective of someone who has emerged from the darkest days triumphant, LIFE IS NOT ABOUT CONTROL grew out of deep pain as Charismata struggled with self-isolation and depression. She hid her problems from the world - “it was the pretending that kept me hostage,” she says. Now sharing her message of hope and determination, Charismata aims to reach those who need to hear it.

Charismata has previously described her style of music as PROTEST POP, a term she coined when she noticed that there was a gap to fill in the mainstream pop scene. The common thread in all her music is Sa’ra’s intelligent lyrics that always convey a healing message.

Sa’ra Charismata is of Eritrean origin, born and raised in Sweden. Her parents fled the war in Eritrea and came to Sweden as refugees in the 1970s. In her teens Charismata moved to the United States.