In a region rich with musical heritage, two innovative artists are carving out a fresh, soulful soundscape. Meet Amal Al Hosani and Rashid Al Saadi — the UAE-based musical duo revolutionizing the local music scene by blending traditional Khaleeji rhythms with the improvisational spirit of Jazz. Their unique sound is capturing hearts across the Emirates and beyond, proving that music knows no boundaries.
Bridging Two Worlds
When Amal, a classically trained jazz vocalist from Abu Dhabi, first met Rashid, a master of the oud and traditional Khaleeji percussion from Sharjah, the chemistry was instant. Both were driven by a shared passion for exploring their roots while pushing musical boundaries. What started as casual jam sessions soon blossomed into something much bigger — a project they now call Alwan, meaning “colors” in Arabic.
Their name is a nod to the colorful tapestry of sounds they weave together, creating a musical experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Their performances seamlessly transition from the hypnotic drumming patterns of traditional Khaleeji music to the intricate, freeform explorations of jazz.
“Jazz, at its heart, is about freedom and dialogue,” Amal says. “When you blend that with the storytelling nature of Khaleeji music, you create something incredibly powerful.”
Growing Popularity Across the UAE
Over the past year, Alwan has quickly risen from local favorites to national sensations. Their concerts have drawn diverse crowds, from lifelong jazz aficionados to Emirati elders curious about the duo’s reinterpretations of familiar rhythms. Their appearances at major events like the Abu Dhabi Festival and Dubai Jazz Festival have been met with standing ovations, a testament to their universal appeal.
Social media has also played a crucial role in their rise. Short clips of their performances — often filmed at atmospheric venues like the Souk Madinat Jumeirah or heritage sites in Al Ain — have gone viral, accumulating thousands of shares and sparking online conversations about cultural innovation in the UAE.
Their official pages and social media accounts are buzzing with updates, sneak peeks of upcoming projects, and heartfelt messages from fans across the region.
Crafting Their Unique Sound
What makes Alwan’s music so special is the careful balance they strike between authenticity and experimentation. Rashid’s mastery of the oud provides the warm, earthy backbone to their songs, while Amal’s soulful, silky vocals dance effortlessly across complex jazz chords and rhythms.
They often collaborate with other musicians, inviting saxophonists, drummers, and even electronic artists to join their creative sessions. This openness has allowed them to constantly evolve, ensuring that no two performances are ever exactly the same.
“Some nights we lean heavily into Khaleeji beats,” Rashid explains, “and other nights, it feels like a full-on jazz jam session. We let the energy of the room guide us.”
A Mission to Celebrate Culture
Beyond just creating beautiful music, Amal and Rashid see themselves as cultural ambassadors. Through Alwan, they aim to celebrate Emirati identity while showcasing its adaptability in a globalized world.
Their debut album, set to release later this year, features tracks like “Desert Breeze,” a smooth blend of traditional poetry and jazzy trumpet solos, and “Pearl Diver’s Dream,” a haunting ballad that pays tribute to the UAE’s maritime past.
“By honoring the traditions of the past and adding our personal touch,” Amal says, “we hope to keep our culture alive and vibrant for future generations.”
Challenges and Triumphs
Of course, forging a new musical path is not without its challenges. Amal and Rashid faced skepticism early on, especially from purists who feared that fusing Khaleeji music with Western genres would dilute its essence.
But rather than being discouraged, the duo saw these conversations as opportunities for growth and dialogue. They have hosted workshops and discussions at universities and cultural centers across the Emirates, inviting audiences to experience the evolution of their music firsthand.
Their perseverance has paid off. Today, Alwan is widely celebrated as a shining example of how tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully.
Looking Ahead
With a growing international fan base and collaborations with artists from across the Gulf and Europe in the works, the future looks bright for Alwan. They are currently planning a regional tour, with stops in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait, before heading to Europe for performances in Paris and Berlin.
But no matter how far their music travels, Amal and Rashid remain rooted in their mission.
“We are proud to be from the Emirates,” Rashid says, smiling. “Every note we play carries a piece of our home.”
As they continue to bridge cultures and generations through their music, one thing is clear: Alwan’s soulful fusion is just getting started.
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