Featured Artist
ABIR
Can you tell us about the moment you realised you wanted to pursue a career in music?
I don't know if there was an exact moment, but ever since I was a kid, I always imagined my life as an artist in music. I worked towards this goal every day and tried to learn everything about writing and singing songs so that I could eventually find my way there. I think my career really started when I moved to New York.
How would you describe the music that you make?
My style has changed over the years, but at the moment, I would call it Arab-Pop. My last project included elements from the North African region like the Arab scale, percussion rhythms and instruments, strings, etc. all mixed with Western pop sounds.
What are some key elements that drive you to continue making music?
I’m driven by wanting music to help heal others in whichever capacity that is (whether it’s the music and story itself or the money that comes from my career being given back to communities that need it the most). I’m driven by the idea of breaking barriers for women who like me and come from where I come from, occupying a real place in the US music market, not just the “global” market.
What would you say is the biggest moment of your career so far?
I think the biggest moment of my career was releasing my record “Finest Hour” and performing at Coachella with the DJs I worked with named Cash Cash. It was such a special song to me and to see it reach the height and the people that it has really makes me happy.
Tell us about your creative process? Has it always been the same?
My creative process changes a lot. One day, I am just at home writing songs and singing them into my computer until I find something I love that I can eventually share with a producer or co-writer. Other days, I’m collaborating with others and shooting out melody and lyric ideas that inspire us. I also love to pull from real experiences and whenever I don’t have anything inspiring to write about, I commit to a character and try to live in that character for as long as I can to get the best ideas and stories.
Where have you performed? What was your favourite venue to perform in?
I have been so lucky to perform US nationwide, Canada, and just recently Dubai and Kuwait. One of my favorite venues to perform in has been First Avenue in Minneapolis. The first time I ever performed there, the crowd was so amped up and had such great energy. It was home to the legend himself, Prince, so that explains why the aura in the room was so energetic and beautiful.
Can you tell us about the story behind your album “HEAT”?
‘Heat’ is about challenging the idea that you can only be one thing and not the other. Unreserved and non-conforming, accepting myself as I am and celebrating that.
What is your favourite release in recent years and why?
One of my favorite releases has definitely been my EP “HEAT”. I got to explore a part of me that I hadn’t yet and it was so exhilarating to create something that I felt didn’t exist. Aside from the music, the EP opened up a whole new world for me visually and I got to explore more artful authentic looks along with creative.
Can you talk about upcoming releases in 2022? Can we expect another album?
I’ve been working on a project since my last release but haven’t yet decided a date of release. Stay tuned!
What accomplishments do you see yourself achieving in the coming years?
I hope to put out more music, film more epic music videos, go on my first headlining tour, participate in international festivals, create artful in-person experiences that celebrate my culture and heritage outside of music, and maybe do some acting!
Who would you like to work with from the region?
I would really love to work with Elyanna, the Palestinian-Chilean queen!
What is the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?
“The power is in the pen” — Learn to write your own music!!!
Describe your favourite interaction with a fan.
I had a fan bring me the sweetest letter to a show in Toronto once, and now she is a part of my team!
What would’ve been your career if you weren’t making music?
I see myself working behind the scenes in project management.
What does your involvement in the Regional Artist Spotlight mean to you?
I’m honored and grateful to be recognised by the region with this feature. There truly is nothing better than being appreciated by your own people!
What is your top 5 after-party playlist?
- We’Mama - Dj Maphorisa
- Sundown - Beam ft. Justin Bieber
- Feel No Ways - Drake
- Aoede - Mashrou’ Leila
- Light On - Maggie Rogers