French-Thai-American indie soul artist blending vintage textures, cinematic storytelling, and explosive live energy.
“Issara’s beautiful storytelling is next to none. It is clear to me that this is only the very beginning of Issara's journey and that she has much more to offer us. You can really feel the love she puts into her music and it's just a few minutes of complete and utter joy.” - RGB
— RGM PRESS
“In a world where music genres constantly evolve, it's refreshing to see an artist like Issara, who infuses her unique style into the timeless genre of Soul. ” - TLEG
— The Lionsground Entertainment Group
“"Home," her latest single, evokes a nostalgic, gospel-infused ballad, celebrating enduring love and friendships. Explaining its essence, Issara shares, "Home isn't a place, it's the people." The gospel element pays homage to her American church roots amidst her global upbringing.”
— EARMILK
EP- Rebirth
Issara
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MR. BLUE EYES 2:470:00/2:47
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WILDMAN 3:570:00/3:57
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GOODBYE LOVE 4:570:00/4:57
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UNIQUE 4:200:00/4:20
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FLY AWAY 5:120:00/5:12
“Fiercely unique and packing an effortlessly captivating soulful sound, Issara is an artist that channels her multi-cultural heritage and upbringing into creating a style that feels distinctive and alluring while having an instantly memorable, familiar appeal that feels timeless.” - KIERAN ROGERS
— CLOUT
“"Rebel," Issara explores themes of personal autonomy, resilience, and defiance. The lyrics reflect a journey guided by intuition, refusing to conform to societal pressures. The chorus serves as a rallying cry, echoing the unapologetic rebel spirit within. The bridge acknowledges potential judgment but defiantly asserts freedom from societal norms. With a genre-blending sound, "Rebel" is more than just a song—it's an anthem for those embracing their authenticity.”
— Issuewire
“Issara slams with Soul hit "Woman". The song's style harks back to the golden era of 70s disco soul pop, but with a modern twist.”
— The Lionsground Entertainment Group
“Shaking up the soul scene is none other than emerging artist, Issara, whose soundscapes paradigmatically epitomises her diverse upbringing. Joining the collective of artists who refuse to be placed into one stylistic box, Issara draws upon the disparate realms of pop, rock, gospel, and French yéyé, as well as tapping into Thai funk nuances. The outcome? A captivating soundscape that skilfully blends her soulful roots with timeless appeal.” - Darcy Culverhouse
— NOTION
Bio
Issara: Indie Soul with a Thai twist
Issara is a French-Thai-American indie soul singer-songwriter whose music feels like it belongs to every decade at once — retro in its DNA, deeply alive on stage.
Drawing inspiration from soul icons such as Tina Turner, Amy Winehouse, and Etta James, and weaving in elements of gospel, French yéyé, Thai funk, pop, and rock, her sound is cinematic and human — defined by nostalgic melodies, heartfelt storytelling, and grooves built to be felt as much as heard.
The name “Issara” means freedom in Thai, and it reflects her artistic intent — to create space for people to feel more deeply and connect more honestly through music, beginning with her own stories.
Born in Bangkok, raised in Seattle, and now based in Normandy, France, Issara (Emilie Harnsongkram) is a multicultural artist who resists reduction to any single box. Her music reflects all of it.
Music has been at the center of her life since early childhood. She began singing in church at the age of three, later performing in choirs, gospel groups, and recording studios, before writing her first songs as a teenager.
She has since shared stages with Earth, Wind & Fire Experience by Al McKay, General Elektriks, Vaudou Game, and The Buttshakers, and performed at major festivals including Papillons de Nuit, Les Rendez-Vous Soniques, Rock en Évreux, Festival Grandes Marées, and L’Armada de Rouen. Her collaborations include MC Solaar (Chapitre 7), DJ Chymera (Death by Misadventure), and Loup Miracle.
In 2019, she released the EP Rebirth. In 2024, her debut LP 222 — an eleven-track exploration of female empowerment, resilience, and self-discovery — earned press from EARMILK, Notion, Illustrate Magazine, Plastic Magazine UK, and others. Her 2025 single All Night, accompanied by a music video filmed in Bangkok, was a standalone exploration of pop influences and new sonic textures, revealing another facet of her broad musical identity.
This summer, she returns with a new single — more raw and rock-leaning — debuting live on European festival stages.
Beyond the stage, Issara has led songwriting workshops for adolescents facing psychological or physical challenges and participated in cultural, health, and education programs including Les Rendez-Vous de la Récré and Culture Santé at Le Normandy. Her work reflects a consistent commitment to inclusivity, reinforcing her belief that music is a space for everyone.
Five French festival dates mark her return to European stages in summer 2026, with new music on the horizon.
“She has obvious charisma on stage and exudes something of the young Aretha Franklin of yesteryear. Issara knows how to play and challenge her musicians as well as the audience with her voice, her devilish soulful swaying of her hips, but also coaxes them to unleash themselves. Bewitched, she wants to take you with her and share the energy she gives off. And it works ! She is at home on the stage and shares the present moment with true sincerity. We don't ask ourselves any questions, we follow her with our ears and eyes wide open” - Yann HALOPEAU
— Ouest France
Press
222 BY ISSARA: ALBUM REVIEW
Throughout 222, Issara proves to be a storyteller who travels through genres and styles with grace and courage. So hit play, and get ready for a ride you won’t soon forget.
Issara is here to make you feel alive in vibrant shades of retro soul pop rock in her latest album, 222. Born in Bangkok and raised in Seattle, Issara infuses her music with a unique blend of Thai funk, gospel, and soul, creating a nostalgic and fresh sound.
Issara reveals ‘222’. A soulful composite of empowerment and authenticity
Enchanting mix of musical treasures seamlessly blends soul, pop, and rock, crafting a contemporary yet nostalgic tale of empowerment and individuality.
In her album, the captivating singer-songwriter blends Thai, French, and American roots into an alluring sound resonating with soulful expression. https://www.famemagazine.co.uk/issara-reveals-222-a-soulful-composite-of-empowerment-and-authenticity/
Soulful Odyssey: Issara’s Debut ‘222’ Delves Deep- Music Arena GH -
There’s no denying the echoes of greats like Aretha Franklin or Carole King in how Issara commands attention—not just for the power in her voice but for the stories she tells
Issara’s debut album “222” is a mesmerizing blend of soul-pop-rock that gracefully dances across the lines of vintage influence and contemporary nuance. It’s a musical journey underpinned by themes of female empowerment, self-discovery, and the pursuit of authenticity that both enchants and inspires. Each track is like a brushstroke in Issara’s masterpiece painting—showcasing her raw honesty, resilience in love, and introspective tales—making this record not just an album but an emotional expedition.
https://www.musicarenagh.com/soulful-odyssey-issaras-debut-222-delves-deep/
A highly musical and lyrical album experience that checks all the boxes from start to finish.
Offers a raw and honest exploration of female empowerment
Issara, the talented France based artist, has released her debut album, “222”, paying tribute to the women who shaped her life and her artistic vision…a highly musical and lyrical album experience that checks all the boxes from start to finish.
If you haven’t already checked out Issara’s debut album “222”, you’re in for a treat. - BEACH HOUSE MAG
“222” captivates with its authenticity and eclectic sound.
If you haven’t already checked out Issara’s debut album “222”, you’re in for a treat. This album is a soul-stirring journey that celebrates the influential women in Issara’s life, alongside her own artistic evolution.
Cheers to the Vikings - Issara 222
Rooted in meaningful messages and relatable stories, her music resonates with audiences, fostering a deep connection and vibe.
With support from her family, she managed the obstacles faced while being a mother at same time following her music dream. By turning forty years old, Issara intends with “222” that women should be inspired into finding their desires and embarking on new ventures. She uses her music to encourage naturalness while inquiring about the magnificent potentiality within oneself.
ISSARA unveils a soulful sonic masterpiece with her debut album, “222”
Issara’s debut album, “222,” is a valuable addition to numerous playlists, a must-listen for enthusiasts craving introspective charm and authentic storytelling innovation.
“222” offers an auditory 11-track album manifesto that transcends genres and defies expectations, inviting listeners into a world of shimmering melodies and hazy whispers. ISSARA, named after the Thai word for “freedom,” is a testimony to her emancipating musical odyssey and pledge to authenticity.
https://honkmagazine.com/issara-unveils-a-soulful-sonic-masterpiece-with-her-debut-album-222/
POPHITS- Magic of the mix pop soul and elm reshaping the musical realm
With a voice that weaves through genres, Issara delivers a sound that is as enchanting as it is profound.
Her music is an exquisite blend of soul rock and commercial pop, with a touch of classic sound that pays homage to the greats like Aretha Franklin and Amy Winehouse,” states a PopHits.Co music curator. This endorsement highlights the depth and versatility ISSARA embodies.
https://pophits.news/artist/artists/magic-of-the-mix-pop-soul-and-edm-pop-reshaping-the-music-realm/
LITM Pop Picks
Explores themes of love, growth, and purpose with artists Issara, MOLTENO, Karen Harding, and others
Issara’s soundscapes are a melting pot of genres, with a melange of musical, cultural, and artistic influences brewed into a vibrant, lively blend of melodies and meaning.
Issara unravels a soulful tapestry in nostalgic track ‘Home'.
Shaking up the soul scene is none other than emerging artist, Issara,
whose soundscapes paradigmatically epitomises her diverse upbringing. Joining the collective of artists who refuse to be placed into one stylistic box, Issara draws upon the disparate realms of pop, rock, gospel, and French yéyé, as well as tapping into Thai funk nuances. The outcome? A captivating soundscape that skilfully blends her soulful roots with timeless appeal.
ISSARA SLAMS WITH SOUL HIT “WOMAN”
The song's style harks back to the golden era of 70s disco soul pop, but with a modern twist.
Issara - a promising young singer with a very soulful universe
france.tv
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