Daily Inspiration: Meet Arzeen Kamal

Today we’d like to introduce you to Arzeen Kamal.

Hi Arzeen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I became interested in singing when my sister began vocal lessons at an early age. Later, I earned a diploma in Indian semi-classical vocal training. I had never considered taking music as a career, however. As a Fulbright scholar, I came to the USA to pursue my master’s degree in cultural anthropology. My career at the time was in the field of public health in Bangladesh, and having a degree from North America would provide me with a better position. My perspective has changed since I came here, and I’ve realized that people can change careers at any time. In 2014, I finished my degree in Anthropology and moved to Los Angeles to work on my music. It has been a pleasure meeting some great musicians in the USA along the way. This enabled me to reach the position I am in today.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The process was not smooth at all. I had a lot of insecurities about releasing my music. There were always times when I was not satisfied with my music and always wanted to deliver something to my audience that was really good. However, I realize that I will continue to strive to improve. As far as I am concerned, I can not be perfect, and people like imperfections. My goal now is to do better than I did yesterday.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Bengali singer and songwriter based in Los Angeles. My musical journey began in Bangladesh and has continued in the United States, where I have been living for the past 13 years. I sing indie folk and pop songs as well as collaborate with electronic producers. I am currently touring with my latest self-titled album among other newly written works. I am proud that with my Bengali music, I am able to connect with people regardless of whether they are Bengalis or not. In 2017, I performed as part of the Promise Zone Arts project, which was administered by the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, and I was thrilled to see non-Bengalis loving my music.

I believe that the power of my musical performances lies in the participation of my audience. In my performances, I always try to incorporate my audience to make it more participatory, which makes me feel as if I am sharing my music with the world. Overall, my music and melody are very simple, so anyone can sing a chorus just by hearing one or two notes.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Collaboration always brings something new to the table and pushes my boundaries beyond my comfort zone. One of my most streamed Spotify tracks in last year was Puria, an EDM track I collaborated with Evan Hatfield, which was remixed by Taches and Zuma Dionys. I remember having considerable reservations and self-criticism regarding how my voice sounded on an electronic dance music track and now I consider EDM to be one of my favorite genres. In addition, I am a member of the band Mystical Joyride, which was formed as a result of a collaboration. Those who are interested in collaboration can reach me via my social media or website. Working with producers of electronic dance music is always a pleasure for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.arzeenkamal.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arzeenkamal?igsh=YzVkODRmOTdmMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arzeen.kamal?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@arzeen?si=WLcMOFefHk3-J5Or

Image Credits
Caitlin Pit Foster Snell Rajib Adyan Sadi