Today we’d like to introduce you to Azam Ali.
Hi Azam, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Tehran, Iran and sent to study in an English boarding in India at the age of four where I lived for eleven years. The Islamic Revolution in Iran prevented me from going back so my mother moved to India where she lived for a few years until we moved to the United States together in 1985. My interest in music was from childhood although I was mostly studying Indian classical dance while in India. At the age of eighteen, I decided I wanted to pursue music and began studying the Persian Hammered Dulcimer and taking singing lessons at Santa Monica College.
I signed my first record deal at the age of 23 with my first band VAS. We released four albums before we went our separate ways upon which time in 2005 I co-founded the electronic/acoustic global music group NIYAZ with whom I have also released four albums and continue to tour around the world.
Aside from that, I have released four solo album which are quite different from one another. Each album explores my vast interest in various music and singing styles as well as my lifelong interest in production. My last album, “Phantoms” was written and produced entirely by myself.
My musical journey has also led to some incredible collaborations with renowned artists such as Peter Murphy, Buckethead, and Serj Tankian. I have also had the great pleasure of working with some of Hollywood’s greatest composers on various film, television and video game scores.
I like to keep my musical explorations diverse so that I am continually growing and learning.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There is no such thing as a smooth road for any artist. However it is the obstacles that we encounter and overcome that determine our longevity and success in this harsh industry. My greatest challenge has always been trying to carve a place for myself as a female music producer and being credited as such, not just for my singing.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am predominantly known for being a singer but my professional skills include composing and production as well. Particularly in the intersection of acoustic and electronic music. I have always had a great interest in various vocal styles and have had formal training in Early Medieval music, Middle Eastern, Balkan and Indian singing styles. I use this entire palette of vocal colorings in my own musical composition.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Falling asleep as a small child in my dorm room in India with fireflies everywhere
Contact Info:
- Website: https://azamalimusic.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azamaliofficial/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/azam.ali.music/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AzamAliandNiyaz
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/azamalimusic
