Today we’d like to introduce you to Nael Khoury.
Nael, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’m an independent Hip hop artist that goes by the name Nile Rivers. A lot of my music can be looked at as very relatable. The reason to that is because I write about my life and my human experience. I like to inspire and uplift people with my lyrics, also give you that stank face when listening to certain songs. I’ve been writing lyrics since the age of 17 but really grew into myself when I started going by Nile Rivers. I’m currently working with one of my best friends and master at sound Invisible Triangles. Invisible triangles produces engineers mix and master almost all of my music. I love working with people that push each other to be better, and that’s what we do. I’ve always had a vision of becoming a successful independent hip hop artist and with the team that I have put together I feel like my dreams may finally start coming true.
I’m a first-generation Arab American, my family were not very supportive of my creative outlet growing up. They’re very traditional and wanted me to become a lawyer or doctor, which never happened because I decided I wanted to spend my time on this earth differently. I knew music was the path for me. It was the first therapeutic experience I’ve ever had, pouring out my heart and soul on paper, and then eventually on beautifully structured songs. I wouldn’t in the position I’m in without my supportive team Jack Nguyen (photographer-videographer) Sean Buranahiran (YouTube sensation) Polaris Castillo (director) and of course my good friend from Invisible Triangles (Producer, Engineer) I also have a YouTube show with my co-host Rocksteadylettie where we interview local artists, musicians, directors, bands, and comedians. My music can be found on every music platform. Spotify/Apple Music/iTunes and many more. Just search Nile Rivers
Has it been a smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth ride at all when they say “the struggle is real” I can truly relate to that. I’ve had to work tirelessly for what I have and I’m not even close to where I want to be yet. Not one person supported my dreams growing up. So I had to carry the heavy load on my own shoulders. I think everything changed when my quality of music was enhanced. People started to see what me and my team could do and finally started to get a buzz. I had a SoundCloud, my artist name was RYPmisol. The music is still up and available to listen to, but that was the true beginning of my musical journey.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
As an Independent hip hop artist I manage myself, I have my own team that I choose to work with, and I book my own shows. As Nile Rivers I love to perform for crowds, no matter the size. I perform at open mics, backyard shows and local bars in Pomona, California. I think what separates me from other Hip hop artists is my story as an artist, how I became one, and what inspired me to become one. No matter what life threw at me I never quit, I never gave up, and I continued persevering. There aren’t many successful Arab American hip hop artists and I hope to change that. I do speak Arabic but I haven’t yet incorporated the language to my music. Although that is a plan of mine for the future. I also release a new song every month so my fans always have something to look forward to every month.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love LA. I love the food, the people, and its diversity. I love the music, comedy and all the talented people in LA. I’m a huge Laker fan and the Staple center is one of my favorite places to go to. The one thing I don’t like about LA is the traffic, it’s honestly so bad! The competition is also a downside of a city filled with talented people all trying to make their dreams come true, but that’s also the beauty of LA.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Nilerivers_official
- Facebook: Facebook.com/Nilerivers
- Twitter: Rivers Nile
Image Credit:
Jack Nguyen, Polaris Castillo
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
