From Abu Dhabi to the World: Abdullah Al Shamsi’s Rise
Abdullah Al Shamsi, known by his stage name NotSoHuman, is a 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Abu Dhabi. His journey into music began unexpectedly after a sports injury redirected his path. Initially passionate about sports like basketball, jujitsu, and swimming, a nerve injury to his right hand led him to explore music—a realm where he found solace and purpose.
His musical breakthrough came in 2019 when he posted a cover of Bruno Mars’ “Talking to the Moon” on TikTok. The video went viral, amassing significant attention and marking the start of his ascent in the music industry. This pivotal moment inspired him to delve deeper into music, leading to the release of his original single “Love it Up,” which received widespread acclaim across platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Apple Music.
Embracing Uniqueness: The Story Behind ‘NotSoHuman’
The moniker “NotSoHuman” reflects Abdullah’s personal journey of self-discovery. As a child, he often felt different and out of place among his peers. This sense of otherness led him to question his identity, eventually embracing his uniqueness as a strength rather than a flaw. The name symbolizes his acceptance of being different and serves as a testament to his individuality.
Musical Style and Inspirations
NotSoHuman’s music is a blend of pop and acoustic R&B, characterized by soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Influenced by artists like Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, and Jon Bellion, he strives to create music that resonates emotionally with listeners. His performances often feature covers of diverse artists, including Lewis Capaldi, Queen, and Frank Sinatra, showcasing his versatility and deep appreciation for various musical genres.
Achievements and Recognition
Abdullah’s talent and dedication have earned him notable accolades. In 2021, he was named “Artist of the Year” by EMMA for Peace and the Aqdar World Summit. His performances have graced prestigious venues across the UAE, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Expo 2020. In 2024, he won the “Emirati Artist of the Year” at the 4th Musivv Awards, further solidifying his status in the regional music scene.
Balancing Academics and Artistry
While pursuing his musical career, Abdullah remains committed to his academic endeavors. He is currently in his fourth year studying Cyber Security at Abu Dhabi Polytechnic. Balancing academics with music, he exemplifies dedication and time management, serving as an inspiration to young individuals striving to pursue multiple passions simultaneously.
Social Media and Fan Engagement
With over 235,100 followers on TikTok and more than 12,300 on Instagram, NotSoHuman has cultivated a substantial online presence. His engaging content, ranging from song covers to original compositions, has garnered over 4.2 million likes on TikTok. His authentic and relatable persona resonates with fans, fostering a loyal and growing community.
Advocacy and Social Awareness
Beyond music, Abdullah uses his platform to advocate for social causes. He openly supports humanitarian issues, including the #FreePalestine movement, demonstrating his commitment to leveraging his influence for positive change.
Upcoming Projects and Aspirations
Looking ahead, NotSoHuman is focused on expanding his musical repertoire. He is actively working on new songs and plans to release his first album soon. His goal is to inspire other young Emiratis to pursue their creative passions, emphasizing that the UAE provides a supportive environment for artists to thrive.
Connect with NotSoHuman
For inquiries, collaborations, or to follow his musical journey, reach out via:
- Phone: +971 50 679 2320
- Instagram: @not.so.human
Also read: Dubai’s D33 Economic Plan Enters Phase Two with Big Support for SMEs and Tech
