Signed to Universal Music, he won “Best Artist” after participating in Virgin MENA’s talent competition, where he competed against 166 artists from across the Middle East and North Africa as well as winning the Emerging Talent Competition, winning him a residency gig at Abu Dhabi’s largest entertainment venue, the Du Arena. Now set to open for all major events at the venue throughout 2018, he hasn’t slowed down since.
His easy, feel good music, and covers of classic old songs will make you wonder why you didn’t own any of his music before. He caught our attention when he opened for the Backstreet Boys at Blended Festival in Dubai, which hosted over 15,000 people, and we just had to find out more.
Tell us a little about your backstory...
I’ve been passionate about music ever since my mom bought me a guitar when I was 15 years old. Music helped me express myself in ways I could never imagine and I started doing music full time about a year ago. Although, I’ve always been posting cover songs on my Instagram - my career took off when I won two of the biggest talent competitions in the country, got signed to Universal Music and opened up for major artists such as P!NK, Katy Perry, Calvin Harris, Fifth Harmony, and most recently, The Backstreet Boys.
Being an Arab, a career as a musician isn't the most conventional, how was your decision to pursue a music career received by your family/society?
When you decide to do music full time, it’s quite a big step. People will advise you against it. But I’ve learned that if you work really hard at something and stay determined with a good attitude, then nothing can stand in your way. Life is full of risks, no matter what path you choose, so you might as well risk doing something that you love. I’m so grateful that it’s been going well so far.
Who are your musical inspirations and why?
Amy Winehouse was a huge inspiration for me. Her soulful voice and emotions can be heard in every word she sang. I’m also a big admirer of John Mayer’s unique style and song writing abilities.
You were raised in Dubai, what kind of music did you listen to growing up and did you have much access to the folksy, country style you play?
I love this city. I’m so grateful to have grown up here, and the opportunities Dubai has given me. Growing up in one of the most multicultural cities in the world meant that I was lucky enough to hear so many different styles and genres of music. My playlist is an international mix of artists because of this.
How did you discover your niche/style of music?
I have a raspy voice, and love my acoustic guitar. I’ve built a unique style based on that, although it is influenced by the soul, acoustic, indie, and alternative music that I listen to.
You've performed as an opening act for a fair few globally renowned artists, and most recently, the Backstreet Boys at Blended Festival, how did that come about? And were you ever inspired by them at all?
I used to listen to them growing up! I was happy that I managed to meet AJ backstage. I love to perform, and pour my heart out on that stage every time. It felt special to perform at a major festival in the city I grew up in.
Where do you write your music and do you find being in certain places or situations evoke certain emotions that bring your music to life?
The inspiration can come at any time. I never sit and decide to write a song. It’s not something you can force, when something inspires me I write it or record it and then build from there.
Whats a song you've written that has come out of nowhere? Like when you're staring into a microwave watching last night's pizza rotate? Does that ever happen to you?
Some songs take weeks to perfect, but I did write one of my most successful songs, “SOLO” in about 15 minutes. I was playing and singing melodies on my guitar and just had a rush of inspiration. The song hit #3 on the iTunes charts in Egypt & Jordan – maybe I should do that more often!
What is the most "rock star" thing you've ever done?
I once ate pineapples on a pizza.
You did an incredible cover of Elvis Presley's "Fever" at Blended Festival, who are your favorite artists to cover?
I don’t really have a favorite artist to cover, although I do tend to cover nostalgic tracks because I believe the words are so strong and they were sung with so much passion and emotion back in the day.
AboutHer.com is a digital platform that advocates gender equality and feminism. Would you call yourself a feminist?
Yes, I support gender equality and I’m so happy to see a shift in the region towards a more equal society. Growing up, some of the most influential people in my life happen to be women so I am a huge supporter of gender equality.
What advice would you give to other young aspiring Arab musicians who want to break the mold and pursue a career in music?
My advice to any up and coming artist would be to keep performing live, keep learning as much as possible, and to be involved in all the events the city has to offer. Lastly, I think they should embrace their own unique style and shouldn’t be afraid to get criticized for sharing their voice with the world.
Most importantly, where can we find your music?
You can find my music on all online and streaming platforms like iTunes, Apple Music, Deezer, and Anghami. I also have some great music videos that were filmed in the UAE up on my YouTube channel as well. People can keep up to date with my performances on my Instagram @dannyaridi.
Photography: Ghaith Tanjour
