With the implementation of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's music/creative scene is growing at a fast rate with artists such as Saud, Jeed and many more putting the country's scene on the map and taking it global. The latest artist to join the list of musicians that are trailblazing the kingdoms music scene is Aziz. Born and raised in Riyadh, Aziz was exposed to a variety of different music genres, which led to him partaking in music as a hobby and eventually releasing his own track. His debut single, Wave Tide was released in September and is already making a buzz around the world. Aziz talked to us about his first interactions with music, his future goals and the music scene in Saudi.
-What was your first interaction with music?
My first interaction with music started at a very young age. I used to enjoy musical cartoons such as Mulan ect.., I used to sing along to cartoon network theme songs of certain shows. At first, I was only learning French and Arabic at school, but music helped me learn English rapidly.
-At what point did you decide you wanted to create music and what triggered that?
Well, I always felt like I wanted to make music even when I was very young, my cousins and I used to always play karaoke and they kept telling me that I had something going on till I realized it myself.
When I was 12, two of my friends and I started a band. That's when I first started writing. Even though we didn't take the band seriously it helped me discover my writing capabilities at a young age.
In 2016, I got inspired to start writing and make music again when I went abroad to University in the UK. I have to thank my multi-talented mates and artists Tavonga and Adam Nabeel for inspiring me to make music and take it more seriously.
- Describe to us your experience being an artist in Saudi Arabia?
Everyone is so supportive and positive, that motivates me to create more. With the Saudi vision 2030, music is becoming a big thing for locals which is a big opportunity for us artists.
- How has your time in the UK impacted your taste in music?
My music taste has always been versatile, If its good music I will vibe to it no matter what the genre is, but the UK helped me find my flavor and sound.
- Tell us about the music/creative scene in Saudi Arabia and how it has evolved in recent years?
The creative/music scene in Saudi is growing rapidly, the musicians and creatives are so supportive everyone wants everyone to win which is healthy for the community. When I first moved back to Saudi, the music and creative community welcomed me with open arms.
The pioneers of the community are doing the most to help other artists which I believe is vital. To name a few, I would like to the thank: Ntitled, Jeed, SAÜD and One Ear for everything they have done for me since I moved back to Riyadh, and for everything they have done for the music scene. I would also like to thank Pass The Kabsa for creating a platform that supports, promotes and inspires local artists and creatives.
- What inspired you to make a song and put it out?
Well at first, I was making music trying to find my sound, till I found it. Originally, I wasn't supposed to drop Wave Tide but I was pressured by everyone around me. I was waiting for the perfect time to drop Wave Tide as my first single till I eventually did. Now that I got the ball rolling there is no stopping. My second single produced by NBL is dropping this month, I can’t wait for everyone to listen to it.
- Where do you see your music going in the next 10 years?
I see my music going global and not just local, I believe I can reach this goal in less than 10 years.
Being that you come from a place with a very rich culture, do you see yourself blending elements from Local/Arabic music into your style of music to create a fusion?
I always like to keep an open mind. I've always been mesmerized by the instruments used locally. I might implement some of the local instruments and create a fusion in the near future, you never know, everything is on the table.
What are 5 dream collaborations of yours?
Drake, FKJ, J.Cole, Rihanna and Burna Boy.
Which Saudi artists do you recommend people should check out right now?
There are so many unbelievable talents to check out. To name a few, you guys should check out Ntitled, Jeed, Zii, Kali-B, Good company and myself.
Check out Aziz's music at: https://song.link/i/1582799777
Make sure to follow Aziz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1aziz.wav/
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