Safiya Sayyed Connects With Us About Her New Release "Misjudged" and What Drives Her Passionate Sound
- STAFF
- 2 days ago
- 12 min read
By: Staff
“Misjudged” is a stunning, emotional powerhouse that fuses bold storytelling with unforgettable rock energy.
A voice that pierces the silence and a sound that blends the vast expanses of history and raw emotion, Safiya Sayyed is back, and her latest track, "Misjudged," promises to shake you to your core.
We recently spoke with the Indian-born, Los Angeles-based artist about her dynamic musical journey and the deeply personal story behind this powerful release. With a voice that commands attention and a style that fuses hard rock, alternative, and cinematic textures, Safiya has already made her mark with tracks like Crave. But Misjudged takes things to a whole new level, offering listeners a haunting yet empowering anthem that reimagines history through the eyes of a queen misunderstood by all who surrounded her.
Inspired by the tale of Mughal King Shah Jahan, Safiya’s song delves into the themes of identity, resilience, and the courage it takes to rise above being misjudged. As she opens up about the personal roots of the track, we get a glimpse into what drives her as an artist. From co-producing the song herself to merging the East and West within her sound, Safiya reveals how deeply her cultural influences shape her music. With Misjudged, she’s not just telling a story; she’s giving a voice to those who feel misunderstood and empowering them to stand in their truth.
We also discussed what’s next on the horizon for this bold, unstoppable force in the rock scene.
Don’t miss the full interview, where Safiya takes us behind the music and shares the vision that’s propelling her forward into the future.
Keep scrolling to get into it with Safiya Sayyed
Here’s how it went:
Begin Interview:
Hello Safiya Sayyed, we’re thrilled to have you here for this interview! We've had an amazing time exploring your music and diving into your creative journey. Now, we’re even more intrigued to get a deeper look into both your brand and your personal and professional inspirations.
Q. The rich opening with Middle Eastern vibes and its calming sensations is a perfect lead-in for what becomes such a powerful and unique track. Your vocal performance in "Misjudged" is absolutely exhilarating and immediately makes listeners want to know, "Who is this incredible performer?" With that in mind, how has your personal musical journey brought you to this point? Did your evolution into a professional career happen gradually, or was there a pivotal moment that set everything in motion?
A. My musical journey began when I was around six years old in Pune, India. I was deeply inspired by Michael Jackson, watching his performances made me realize that I wanted to be an artist, a singer, and a performer. That dream stayed with me ever since.
Growing up, I didn’t have access to much technical training in music, so I taught myself how to sing. I kept challenging myself by learning difficult songs, which helped me develop my vocal technique. But after a while, I realized that to truly grow and reach where I wanted to be, I needed proper contemporary vocal training. That’s when I decided to leave India and move to Los Angeles to pursue music.
It’s funny, when I was a kid, I actually had a wishlist in which I wrote that when I turned 19, I’d come to California to study music. So in a way, I manifested it! The timing of it was not the best as it was peak covid but leaving for LA and studying at the Los Angeles College of Music changed everything for me. I learned so much about the music industry, got exposed to new genres, and discovered my passion for rock music.
My debut single "Crave" was such a special release because it marked the start of an era and my professional journey. Over time, I also developed a love for songwriting and production, which led me to create Misjudged. I poured my heart and soul into that song, it feels like my masterpiece. I honestly couldn’t have made it without all the experiences, lessons, and growth that came along this beautiful journey. I’m really grateful for everything that’s brought me here and shaped me into the artist I am today.
Q. "Misjudged" blends personal storytelling with historical influences. Can you share what the song is about, and what was the personal inspiration behind it? Additionally, why did you choose the title "Misjudged," and what does it reflect about how you want listeners to engage with your music?
A. I wanted to write a song inspired by a major historical event, and the story behind the Taj Mahal immediately came to mind. It’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World, but beyond its beauty, there’s such an interesting mix of truth and myth surrounding it. The Taj was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Over time, though, people began spreading false stories, like the myth that the emperor cut off the hands of the workers who built it. Historical records later showed that this wasn’t true; in fact, the workers were paid above the usual wages of the time.
This whole idea of being misunderstood or misrepresented really struck a chord with me. That’s what inspired Misjudged. I reimagined the story from the queen’s perspective, she’s kind-hearted, but misjudged by her people despite her best intentions. Through that lens, the song became both historical and deeply personal.
The title Misjudged felt perfect because it captures that feeling of being misunderstood, while also fitting naturally with the rhythm and melody of the song. Everyone experiences being misjudged at some point, whether it’s by friends, parents, teachers, or even the world. It’s a universal emotion, something that connects us all.
What I hope listeners take away from the song is empowerment. When they hear it, I want them to feel like they are the queen or king in their own story—strong, resilient, and unapologetically themselves, no matter how others perceive them.
Q. The story of Mughal King Shah Jahan and his famous creation, the Taj Mahal, is a fascinating historical reference in "Misjudged." What drew you to this particular moment in history, and how did the story resonate with you on a personal level?
A. What drew me to Shah Jahan’s story wasn’t just the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, but the emotional depth behind it. I’ve always been fascinated by how something so beautiful and timeless can also carry a sense of pain, loss, and misunderstanding. That duality really resonated with me, how people or intentions can be misread, even when they come from a place of love.
On a personal level, I’ve lost some really meaningful relationships and friendships in my life because they misunderstood me and maybe I misunderstood them too. It’s something that’s always deeply saddened me. It hurts a lot when someone doesn’t see you for who you truly are. We all carry versions of others in our minds that may or may not be the real version of who they are.
Apologies for getting a little deep there, but I genuinely feel that connection. I resonate with that pain and humanity, and I see the emperor not just as a ruler, but as a person who was misjudged in his own way and that’s something I truly understand. Misjudged was my way of turning that feeling into strength, transforming a misunderstood story into something powerful, emotional, and timeless, just like the Taj itself.
Q. "Misjudged" touches on the theme of being misunderstood. What does it mean for you, as an artist, to feel misunderstood? Is this more of a personal experience or something you've felt within the music industry? How does this theme reflect your own journey in music?
A. I think as artists, we all want our audience to see our vision the way we do, to really feel the intention behind what we create. But at the same time, music is so personal and subjective. Everyone connects to it differently, and I’ve learned to appreciate that. If someone relates to my song in their own way, or if it helps them feel something real, that’s enough for me.
Personally It can be frustrating to be misjudged, but I think that’s also what makes the journey meaningful. Those experiences push me to stay authentic and create from a place of truth, not approval.
So, Misjudged really reflects that part of my story, learning to embrace who I am fully, even when others don’t completely understand it. Because at the end of the day, art isn’t meant to please everyone; it’s meant to express something real.
Q. This is your first track as a co-producer. How did stepping into that role influence the final sound of "Misjudged," especially when blending its cinematic textures with rock elements? What part of the co-production process surprised you the most?
A. I honestly loved it. When it comes to playing instruments, I’m not the best, but when it comes to musical ideas, I hear everything, from the tiniest details to the big picture. That also means I can be a bit of a perfectionist and a control freak when it comes to sound. Stepping into the co-producer role was definitely time-consuming because I wanted everything to sound exactly the way I heard it in my head.
There were moments when my ideas clashed with my co-producer’s, but we always found a middle ground by focusing on what served the song best. What really surprised me was how much I got into the fine details: every instrument, every texture, every sound that you hear had an intention behind it. It was like painting a picture, where the tablas and electric guitars became the brushstrokes that added depth and realism like adding that final touch of light to water, the shimmer that makes it feel real and beautiful.
It was my first time being this involved in production, and by the end, I felt so proud of myself. It made me realize how much I love being part of every layer of the creative process.
Q. You've mentioned blending Western rock influences with your Indian heritage. How does it feel to have the opportunity to merge these worlds in your music? What role do these influences play in how you express yourself musically, and how do they shape the sound of "Misjudged"?
A. It feels amazing to share my heritage and authentic sound with the world. Indian music has so many beautiful layers and emotions that not everyone gets to experience, and if people are able to discover it through my music, I’d be deeply honored and proud to share that part of my culture.
As a person, I’ve always been a mix of East and West. I grew up with a lot of Western influences, but moving to L.A. actually reconnected me to my Indian roots. Being away from home made me realize the true value of culture and heritage, it’s something beautiful that deserves to be expressed boldly.
What I love about blending these worlds is that it creates something fresh and unexpected. In a place like L.A., where everyone’s experimenting with new sounds, bringing that Indian essence makes my music stand out. Misjudged is a perfect example, it fuses the spirit of Western rock influences like Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, and They Might Be Giants with the emotional depth and eastern textures inspired by A.R. Rahman’s music. It’s truly a blend of two worlds, and I think that’s what makes it so unique in today’s music landscape.
Q. The emotional depth in your performances resonates with so many listeners. Is there a specific message or feeling you hope people will take away from "Misjudged" in particular?
A. I want listeners to feel seen and heard, to connect with the frustration, anger, and sadness that come with being misunderstood. There will always be people who see you for who you truly are, and those who don’t. But more importantly, by the end of the song, I want them to feel empowered. Misjudged is about reclaiming your voice and realizing that you don’t need anyone’s approval to be yourself. It’s about turning pain into strength and embracing who you are — boldly, unapologetically, and without compromise.
Q. Your performances are often described as raw and emotive. What is your mental and emotional process for preparing to deliver such powerful performances, especially with a deeply personal song like "Misjudged"?
A. With any song I sing, especially my own, I always try to connect with the story as deeply as possible. In my opinion, what makes a performance truly great is when you’re able to make the audience feel something real. And so, I focus on embodying the story, letting the emotions flow through my voice and stage presence, so that listeners can resonate with it and experience it alongside me.
Q. As the co-founder and host of Live from Studio 201, you’ve had the opportunity to spotlight emerging artists. How has this role influenced your perspective on your own music and how you connect with your audience?
A. Being the co-founder and host of Live from Studio 201 has been such an eye-opening experience. Watching other artists share their stories and perform their music has made me more aware of how unique every creative journey is. It’s also helped me appreciate my own growth and individuality as an artist.
Seeing how audiences connect with different performers has given me a better understanding of how people experience different genres of music, which has influenced the way I think about connecting with my own listeners. It reminds me that music is about creating a space where people feel seen and understood.
Q. Storytelling is a vital part of your music. What role do you think storytelling plays in rock music today, especially in a genre that often emphasizes sound and energy over lyrical content?
A. Storytelling is what turns rock music from just sound into an experience. Even with the loudest guitars or the most intense energy, a story gives the song depth and makes people feel it on a personal level. A great performance or song isn’t just about technical perfection, it’s about making the listeners live the emotions, walk in your shoes for a moment, and connect with the story behind the music. That’s what makes it unforgettable and special.
Q. You’ve already accomplished so much with your singles like “Crave” and “Misjudged.” As an independent artist, what has been the biggest challenge you've faced in building your career, and how have you managed to overcome it?
A. I think the biggest challenge and I’ll be unfiltered here — has always been doubt. As a kid, I constantly questioned myself and my musical abilities. I’d wonder if I was really good enough and it wasn't ever comparing myself with others but it was always with myself. I guess that’s the perfectionist in me, always chasing more and never fully satisfied.
As I grew older, I realized that instead of spending so much energy doubting myself, I needed to focus on improving the things I could control and stop being so harsh on myself. I’ve learned to have faith that if something is meant to be, it will be, and that my hard work and dedication won’t go unnoticed.
Self-Doubt has always been my enemy, but I’ve found ways to overcome it. Whenever I feel trapped by it, I go back to my roots whether that’s watching videos of the greats like Michael Jackson performances, talking with friends and family, or reconnecting with God. Those moments help me ground myself and get back on my feet, ready to keep creating and moving forward.
Q. Outside of music, who or what has had the most significant influence on your personal growth or artistic perspective?
A. Outside of music and in my life in general there are two major influences that have shaped me as a person and as an artist: my family and Michael Jackson. From my sister, I inherited a deep love and passion for music. From my father, I carry lessons of resilience, discipline, strength, wisdom, and unwavering dedication. From my mother, I’ve inherited kindness, authenticity, emotional intelligence, courage, hope, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep sense of values from both that guide me in everything I do.
Michael has influenced me in all of these ways, while also shaping me artistically, inspiring me with his songwriting, his ability to connect with people through relatable topics, and his relentless commitment to giving his best in everything he does. In many ways, my parents and Michael overlap as guiding forces in my life. I make decisions, both personally and professionally, by reflecting on what they would do. I am who I am today because of their combined influence and efforts, and I carry their lessons with me in every aspect of my music and life.
Q. After hearing your music and reading this interview, what do you hope people remember most about you? What’s the lasting impression you want to leave on your listeners?
A. I want to be remembered as someone who wore her heart on her sleeve — someone authentic, genuine, and deeply passionate about her music. I want people to feel that everything I create comes from a real place, from a desire to connect, move, and make an impact through my songs.
My dream is to create music that stays with people, songs that feel timeless, that still mean something even 50 years from now. If listeners can see a reflection of who I truly am through my music and feel that they’ve known me, not just the artist but the person, that would be the greatest gift.
Death has always been one of my biggest fears, but I find peace in knowing that through my songs and stories, I can continue to live on. I want my music to carry my spirit, to be my voice long after I’m gone, to be eternal, or at least, as close to eternal as music can be.
Q. We truly appreciate you sharing these intimate insights! So, what's next for you? Can you give us a sneak peek into your upcoming projects and what fans should be excited about?
A. Thank you so much for giving me a platform to share my story and insights. It truly means a lot, and I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity!! As for what’s next, I’m currently working on my third single, which I like to think of as the end of an era and the start of something completely new. After it’s released, I’m excited to explore and experiment with different genres, creating something fresh and exciting for my audience.
I also have a music video for Misjudged in the works, so stay tuned for that! It’s been wonderful sharing my story with you, and I can’t wait to continue this journey and share what’s coming next with everyone.
Safiya Sayyed, thank you so much, we appreciate you taking the time to talk to us!
End Interview