ASHA’s “Tourist” Set to Shake Up Benidorm Fest 2026: From Hitmaker to Headline Artist
Benidorm, Spain – The Benidorm Fest 2026 is already generating buzz, and not just for the established names. Today, all eyes are on ASHA (Hajar Sbihi), a celebrated songwriter who’s quietly shaped the sound of pop music for years, as she prepares to launch her own artist career with the vibrant and multilingual track, “Tourist.” This is breaking news for music fans eager to discover the next big thing, and a significant moment for the festival itself, showcasing a fresh voice with a unique perspective.
The Composer Steps Into the Light
For those unfamiliar, ASHA isn’t a newcomer to the music world – she’s been its architect. Her credits include crafting melodies for global stars like Becky G, C. Tangana, and Danna Paola. But “Tourist” marks a pivotal shift. “It doesn’t begin on a stage, but in the studios,” ASHA explains, a testament to her years honing her craft behind the scenes. This transition from creative anonymity to the media spotlight is a bold move, especially after recently regaining her independence from a record label in Mexico. The process of rebuilding her infrastructure – distributor, publicist, contacts – was, as she puts it, “a very heavy month,” but one she embraced wholeheartedly.
A Multilingual Anthem: “Tourist” Unpacked
“Tourist” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic tapestry woven from French, English, Spanish, and Arabic. ASHA reveals the song’s genesis was surprisingly organic. “The producer showed me the instrumental and the first thing that came out was the word ‘tourist.’ I don’t know why. But if my mouth says so, we have to follow that concept.” She describes the theme as an “emotional tourist,” a captivating blend of nostalgia, humor, and imagined experiences. This isn’t just about physical travel; it’s about the journeys we take within ourselves. The song’s inherent catchiness stems from ASHA’s keen ear – she says if a melody sticks with *her*, it’s destined to resonate with others, a skill honed through years of pop music immersion.
Behind the Scenes: Staging and Professionalism at Benidorm Fest
ASHA is diving headfirst into the Benidorm Fest experience, expressing genuine excitement and a touch of surprise at the level of dedication. “There is incredible seriousness and professionalism. You can tell that this year they want to put on a real show.” Her staging promises to be visually striking – “very colorful and bright” – mirroring the energy of “Tourist.” While not a dancer by trade, ASHA’s creative process naturally incorporates movement. She choreographs initial ideas at home, then collaborates with professionals to refine them. Custom-made costumes will also play a key role in bringing her vision to life. This attention to detail highlights the festival’s commitment to delivering a polished and immersive experience for both performers and audiences.
The Future of Benidorm Fest: A Call for Backstage Access
ASHA isn’t just focused on her performance; she’s also thinking about the bigger picture. She proposes a compelling idea for future Benidorm Fest editions: backstage content. “People would really enjoy seeing what happens before, the meetings, the ideas, the rehearsals. A small diary every two weeks would be great.” This suggestion taps into the growing demand for behind-the-scenes access and transparency, offering fans a deeper connection to the artists and the event itself. It’s a smart observation from someone who’s quickly becoming a key voice within the festival community.
ASHA’s journey from sought-after songwriter to solo artist is a compelling narrative of creative evolution and bold ambition. Her debut at Benidorm Fest 2026 isn’t just a performance; it’s a declaration. It’s a signal that a new force has arrived, and one that’s ready to take listeners on an unforgettable “tourist” experience. Keep an eye on archyde.com for continued coverage of Benidorm Fest 2026 and the rising star that is ASHA.
