Language barrier doesn’t stop Etana’s message

As the Star of the Month Etana makes preparations to leave for Hangout Music Festival in Alabama and Guadeloupe’s heritage festival celebration, Eritaj, she is apprehensive about the upcoming performances.

Etana told THE STAR, “My biggest problem is choosing the songs to perform. Once I get that out of the way, my team and I work on perfecting the set.” wanted to see The Green from Hawaii “because I am a reggae lover” and “I am curious about Pussy Riot as their name stands out”.

The Strong One singer will be travelling with her band, RawSoul Rebels, for this weekend’s event, and although she is not billed to perform alongside any of the popular names publicised, Etana said “I don’t think I’d hesitate if asked to sing with anyone.”

Etana has never experienced the Hangout Music Festival and says she is looking forward to having a professional experience and is eager to gain new fans.

Throughout her travels, Etana has overcome many cultural dissimilarities but one that stands out is the language barrier.

“Based on my experiences in French, Spanish, Italian, German and Portuguese territories, it no longer surprises me,” Etana said.

The singer says that she has had to depend on individuals who speak English, along with the language of whichever territory she is in, to translate and also utilises the Google Translate mobile application.

“On stage, however, I just sing and they all sing along to their favourite tracks,” she said.

Etana says that if there is one lesson she wants the audience at the upcoming events to learn from her it is that it is all right to love and accept everyone the way they are.

She also hopes that her performance influences the people to let go of their troubles and dance.