Saleka Shyamalan, daughter of renowned filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, is carving out her own space in the entertainment industry. While her last name is instantly recognizable to movie lovers around the world, Saleka is a rising star in her own right—fusing soulful R&B music with artistic storytelling and now even appearing in film projects. From releasing captivating singles to contributing to her father’s cinematic universe, Saleka is a name worth remembering.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into Saleka Shyamalan’s journey, explore her musical repertoire, touch on her film work, and uncover what’s next for this emerging artist.
Who Is Saleka Shyamalan?
Saleka Shyamalan is an American singer-songwriter, known for her velvety voice and emotionally rich songwriting. Born to M. Night Shyamalan and Bhavna Vaswani, Saleka was raised in a creatively charged environment. While her father is celebrated for his work in suspenseful thrillers like The Sixth Sense and Split, Saleka took a different path, choosing music as her primary form of expression.
She studied classical piano in her early years and later transitioned into songwriting and R&B vocals during her time at Brown University. There, she honed her craft, developing a style that is both personal and poetic.
Saleka Shyamalan Songs: A Blend of Soul, R&B, and Storytelling
A Promising Debut
Saleka’s debut single, “Clarity,” released in 2020, caught the attention of critics and fans alike. With smooth vocals, a stripped-down melody, and introspective lyrics, "Clarity" was a strong introduction to her sound. Since then, she has released a series of singles, including:
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“Graffiti” – A moody, cinematic piece that explores emotional duality.
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“Remain” – A haunting ballad about longing and emotional vulnerability.
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“Mr. Incredible” – A powerful anthem reflecting themes of self-worth and heartbreak.
Her songs are deeply lyrical, often infused with personal narratives and universal emotions. What makes Saleka stand out is not just her voice but her ability to craft stories through music—a trait that undoubtedly runs in the family.
Collaboration with M. Night Shyamalan
Saleka’s music has also found its way into film and television. Notably, she contributed multiple original tracks to the Apple TV+ psychological thriller "Servant", created by her father. The eerie, atmospheric songs added an extra layer of tension and depth to the show, demonstrating her skill at adapting her style for different mediums.
Saleka Shyamalan Movies: A New Chapter Begins
While Saleka Shyamalan is primarily known for her music, she has recently dipped her toes into acting and film scoring. In 2024, she made her acting debut in M. Night Shyamalan's thriller “Trap”, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.
In Trap, Saleka plays a pivotal role as a pop star whose concert becomes the setting for a mysterious kidnapping plot. The film marks a rare blend of music and mystery, and Saleka’s performance has been praised for its authenticity and intensity. Not only did she act in the film, but she also performed original songs that play a central role in the movie’s soundtrack.
A Dual-Talent in Film and Music
This foray into acting might seem like a detour for a musician, but it aligns perfectly with Saleka’s storytelling sensibilities. Her ability to emote, both vocally and visually, brings added layers to any project she touches. With her first film role well-received, fans are now eager to see what Saleka Shyamalan movies will come next.
The Future of Saleka Shyamalan
As of 2025, Saleka Shyamalan is a name to watch in both the music and film industries. With a growing fanbase, critical acclaim, and the support of a creative family, her artistic journey is just beginning.
Upcoming Projects
Saleka is reportedly working on her debut full-length album, which promises to blend R&B, soul, and cinematic themes. Meanwhile, she continues to collaborate with her father and other artists on visual projects, building a bridge between music and film in innovative ways.
Her unique ability to inhabit both worlds—music and film—makes her a modern multi-hyphenate artist. Whether she’s singing about heartbreak or performing on the big screen, Saleka brings authenticity and heart to every performance.
Saleka Shyamalan may share a last name with one of Hollywood’s most mysterious directors, but she is undeniably carving her own creative path. From emotionally raw songs to eye-catching screen performances, she is redefining what it means to be a modern artist. With every new release—whether it’s a soulful ballad or a movie role—Saleka continues to surprise and inspire.
As the lines between music and film continue to blur, artists like Saleka Shyamalan are leading the way. So whether you're discovering her through Servant, listening to her haunting vocals, or watching her on screen in Trap, one thing is clear—Saleka is just getting started.
