Bishouty was born in Jordan, and after moving around different countries settled in Canada. Initially she released music under the Ayah moniker. This included collaborations with artists such as
eLZhi, Robert Strauss, and
Slakah the Beatchild. Her 2010 release with
DJ Jazzy Jeff, "Xmas Time", was a considered by an
NPR review as "refreshing, a modern soulful approach to music of the season". Bishouty subsequently changed her alias to Merna, and released her debut album under that name in 2015.
The Calling was reviewed by Claire Ashton in Bitch Magazine as "compelling music". She has also emerged as a writer, penning songs for artists such as
JoJo,
Rapsody, Baby Rose,
Cory Henry, Khamari,
Charlotte Day Wilson, Syd, and
Demi Lovato. In 2025, Merna released the 4 track extended player record "Ours To Keep: Side A". A critical review in the Earmilk webzine stated it was "reminiscent of early-career Aretha Franklin". == Musical style and themes ==