Establishing the mood with an astral guitar soundscape and an airy riser, Tahani opens 17 with introspective prose as she sings, “Why do I still feel 17? Still playing the songs I loved from 2003…”. The opus expands with a high octane flow and danceable pop-rock energy to tap into Tahani’s mindset as she reminisces on a more carefree time. This is absolutely relatable and feels zeitgeist as many of us trapped in a war-torn reality are reflecting on the past as a notion of comfort and “happier” times. The second verse references Tahani’s current lived reality, which feels more intense than her teenage dream.
We appreciate the songwriting and poetic prowess that manifests with 17. There is no doubt the Tahani is writing from a raw and authentic place and this really transmutes on the track. The middle eight taps into a higher emotional quotient before an anthemic reprise with luscious harmonies.
Speaking candidly on her life, Tahani confesses, “Music is my therapy and enabled me to turn lived trauma into art work. Becoming a mum at 16 and growing up with an absent, alcoholic father, meant I struggled each day. On top of that being diagnosed with health conditions, ADHD and Autism, meant that life was never simple.”
Tahani continues with reference to her intention as an artist, “As a member of the LGBTQ+ plus community it was a struggle coming out later in life and many people did not approve. However these struggles shaped my life, my music and provided me a purpose. Drawing on years of hardship, heartbreak, and having healed deep trauma, I now write purposefully to help others feel less alone. Music was my lifeline through my darkest days and now I want to provide that light for someone else.”
We, for one, are grateful that Tahani is sharing her voice! Fans of early Avril Lavigne would love 17, and and we could definitely imagine the track being featured in a remake of the iconic Zac Efron and Matthew Perry film, 17 Again, perhaps this time with female leads! In the meantime, we have added 17 to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream Tahani’s wider discography, including Twist Of Fate, Burnout, and Hold on.