Global Hit – Deeya

The World

For our global hit today, we meet a singer who hails from Norway. She grew up in a Muslim immigrant community there.

Deeyah — as she’s known — made a name for herself at an early age. But success also made her the target of harassment and threats. And now she’s speaking out.

The World’s Andrea Smardon has her story.

Deeyah didn’t start her musical career intending to a make a statement. But when she put out this single with rapper Young MayLay, she knew it would cause a stir.

The song is called, “What Will it Be?” and the video shows a series of people ripping tape off of their mouths. It also shows a lot of Deeyah’s midriff. At the end of the video, Deeyah throws off a full black burqua, to reveal her bikini clad body.

Do you support journalism that strengthens our democracy?

At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.

Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever! Every gift will be matched 2:1, so your impact will go even further.