It’s International Women’s Day! And in conjunction with that, we decided to talk to Malaysia’s very own Tabitha Lam!
Sevenpie scored an interview with Dolla’s very own Tabitha Lam! Known for their amazing stage presence, Dolla has recently been taking the local music scene by storm!
From females in music to gender stereotypes, Tabitha or also better known as Tabby, has decided to get up close and personal, and shared a thing or two to inspire females to not only achieve their goals, but to preserver despite society’s pre-imposed glass ceilings regarding women.
1. In your opinion, what or who comes to mind when you think of the phrase “Strong, Independent Woman”
In the context of modern day music, I think of Ariana Grande. She is an inspiration of mine who is always working on empowering women and supporting all communities that are positive. She has fought through many circumstances like the Manchester bombing situation and shown that women can be strong and can fight against negativity with their influence in a place of power.
2. Dolla is a girl group that has not only been taking the local music scene by storm but is also a very inspirational group of young talents. What would you say is the best thing about working with your girls?
They are the best team I could ask for. No matter our flaws we always support and fight alongside each other through every obstacle. I have 3 new sisters that I can share important experiences with and each and every one of them are talented and independent. They are all hardworking and ambitious and surprise me everytime with the amount of tenacity they have for music.
3. What got you into music and performing?
Ever since I was a young girl I’ve always loved singing and dancing to music. When my dad sent me to vocal class I had realised that this is a passion of mine. I participated in many concerts for charity and competitions until I was 16 when I decided to take it more seriously and turn it into my career. I have always loved the performance aspect of it, I love the adrenaline and I love the passion that I get from the crowd and now of course from dolla.
4. What do you think is the biggest issue today, facing women of your age?
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I think one of the biggest issues of today is actually our insecurities. Whether it be about our place and position in society or about our bodies and outlook. We have to learn and understand that women can do amazing things too and we don’t have to hate on men to do that. We should share positivity and learn to advance girl power in a good way. Also, to learn to be proud of ourselves! Many women are so so beautiful but they just don’t know it.
5. What do you think has changed throughout the years surrounding stereotypes with women?
Definitely the fact that women are here to work and that we are human and have dreams of our own. Now many women can be considered the breadwinners for their families and I think that’s a great start for female empowerment. It’s an individual choice, not something forced upon you based on gender. I can choose to work, I can choose to be a housewife but that’s up to me and not anyone else.
6. The theme for International Women’s Day 2020 is ”An equal world is an enabled world’, what comes to mind when you read that phrase?
I see a beautiful future where every human is given the right to decide for themselves.
7. What do you think is an attribute that all women have?
Inner strength. I think all women and all men as well have an inner strength that they must learn to embrace and fully use. Life is hard and people have to learn to tolerate and live through reality but I think everyone is capable of doing that.
8. Do you think there’s a stereotype surrounding women making music In the music industry?
110%, I think that the music industry labels us as creatures of visuals. We are subjected to a lot of hateful comments about our bodies and outlook. The moment an outfit looks revealing, the cause for it is because we want to sell ourselves. In actual fact, all we are doing is being ourselves and expressing ourselves how we like.
9. How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?
Very very very important. Eventhough I thoroughly believe that every individual should be independent, I think that women should always be supportive of one another and teach each other how to love themselves and feel confident about their own selves.
10. Since It’s International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to young females thinking about their careers in music?
That music is art, music can be done by absolutely anyone. Do not think of yourselves as being less than anyone else in the industry due to gender and do not undermine your talents. Believe in your music and people will believe in you! It’s a tough road but nothing is easy in life. To achieve great things you will have to go over many obstacles. But just know that you have the strength in you to do that.
Follow Tabitha’s journey on Instagram by clicking here! Or head over to Dolla’s page and give them a follow! Comment below and let us know who you’d like to see on our featured Interview next!
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