In her native Israel, Ninet Tayeb is more than a household name — the acclaimed singer/songwriter/actress is arguably the biggest entertainment figure in the country.

But the road here — on the verge of her fifth album, which will be the first to be released in the U.S. — has been anything but comfortable and straightforward. Even a cursory listen to these new songs reveals an artist with deep resilience, fierce determination, and disarming vulnerability. Along with an unflinching vision of her own path, those are traits that have allowed Ninet to emerge as the wild and free voice you hear on this record.

In this interview spotlight, we chat with Ninet about her influences, her newest project and much more.

Full Q&A with links and the video for Subservient can be found below.

Let’s dive a little deeper into you, Ninet, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre or style?

What attracts me the most has nothing to do with genre. When I write- I feel. When I feel pain or joy or dumb- I’m happy. It is true that I’m attracted to darker sounds but if you catch me on a sunny day I could also be listening to the great Nicki Minaj.

What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?

Music is almost my everything. I can’t imagine my self doing anything else in life. More than I need to share it- I HAVE to share it. It’s stronger than me and my powers. And when I get a letter that says that I saved someone’s life with my music- that’s the fuel to my drive.

Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?

People and nature and fear and anger and madness  and places and sorrow influence my creativity. My taste in music has changed cuz I have changed and I think that’s a blessing. The thing that’s scares me the most is to stay the same.

Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on Subservient? Creatively or otherwise?

I was trying to draw a painting that says Subservient with the help of the amazing director John Wynn.

What was the last song you listened to?

The last song I heard was “This Is Love” by PJ Harvey

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

VINYL

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?

I have no preference, I love listening to music in any form

Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?

I believe that when you stay true to yourself, no matter what the hype is right now, then you know you will find your audience, anywhere and everywhere.

Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?

Bless and love music forever.

Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?

Stay in the loop with Ninet at: http;//ninetayeb.com or on FB: https://www.facebook.com/ninetayebOfficial/