In Tune With Arqam: Soul, Sustainability, And The Echoes Of Change

As the gentle breeze rustles through the lush expanses of Dubai's Mushrif National Park, Emirati soul singer Arqam, with his serene demeanor and thoughtful gaze, seems almost a part of the natural landscape. Known for his soulful vibes and a voice that carries the warmth of the sun, this singer-songwriter has not only captured hearts but also invoked a deeper consciousness about the world we inhabit.

Today, seated on a vintage park bench that has heard many confessions, Arqam is here to share his journey—an odyssey of music, moments, and the mindful choices that define him. His upcoming performance is lined up in Dubai's very own "Coca-Cola Arena" for the EarthSoul Festival.

The Genesis of a Soul Singer

From the vibrant corridors of Sharjah to the rhythmic pulses of Cape Town, Arqam’s beginnings are as colorful as his music. "The first song I ever wrote was during a tumultuous time, right in the throes of the Covid-19 lockdown," he recalls, his fingers absent-mindedly strumming on an imaginary guitar. "It was called 'Heavy'. It was about finding hope and strength amid doubt." His journey since then has been a crescendo of evolving melodies and enriched lyrics, mirroring his personal and artistic growth.

A Ritual of Resonance

Every artist has rituals, and Arqam’s is as grounding as it is enlightening. "I meditate every morning before a performance. It centers me, sets my intentions," he shares with a tranquil smile playing on his lips. This practice of mindfulness is a backstage pass to his soul-stirring performances, a prelude that his audience remains unaware of, yet deeply feels in the connective tissue of his music.

Musical Milestones

Ask him about the moments that have shaped his musical ethos, and he’ll tell you about the soul-stirring echoes of Sam Cooke’s 'A Change Is Gonna Come'. "It was an awakening," Arqam muses, adding, "A realization of how profoundly music can move and transform us." This revelation is a continuous thread in his work, weaving through his lyrics and chords the promise of change and the power of persistence.

Soundtrack of the Soul

For those eager to delve deeper into music that moves and motivates, Arqam has recommendations that are a window to his soul. Lauryn Hill’s 'X-Factor' and 'Tell Him' resonate with him for their profound emotional depth and narrative strength—songs he believes every fan should experience. And of course, Sam Cooke’s anthem of change is a perennial presence on his personal playlist.

Dreaming big is part of Arqam’s ethos, and when it comes to hypothetical collaborations, his stars are the legendary Bob Marley and Michael Jackson. "Imagine blending our styles into a song that speaks across generations," he says, his eyes alight with the excitement of what could be. These icons, with their timeless appeal, inspire Arqam’s aspirations to create music that not only entertains but endures.

Beyond the Music

When he’s not weaving melodies, Arqam is cultivating his green thumb through gardening, a hobby that aligns with his sustainability ethos. "There’s rhythm in nature, in the growth of a plant. It’s similar to music," he reflects, drawing parallels between his environmental stewardship and musical creation.

Harmonizing Emirati Culture and Music

Incorporating traditional Emirati elements into his music, especially the soulful strains of the oud, Arqam pays homage to his roots while pushing the boundaries of soul music. Songs like 'Towards the Light' and 'Leaving' are testament to this beautiful fusion, where modern melodies meet the mystic allure of the Middle East.

Mushrif Park, with its old-world charm and natural tranquility, is Arqam’s sanctuary for songwriting. "It’s a place where nature converses with you," he says, his voice a soft echo amid the rustling leaves. This park is not just a backdrop but a participant in his creative process, a muse in its own right.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Arqam’s ambitions are as expansive as his music. "I want to share my music globally. There’s a show lined up in China next month, and that’s just the beginning," he shares with a determined nod. His music, much like his vision, crosses borders and cultures, aiming to unite and uplift.

Reflecting on the EarthSoul Festival’s theme, Arqam recites lyrics from one of his songs: "My home is killing me, no more sunny days anymore, clouds of smoke living through the skies, no more green fields anymore." It’s a poignant reminder of the environmental conflicts we face, and his music is a clarion call for awareness and action.

As the interview concludes, the setting sun casts a golden glow over Mushrif National Park, mirroring the optimism and warmth in Arqam’s music. For fans old and new, his journey is not just an exploration of sound but a celebration of soul, sustainability, and the silent symphony of nature that inspires us all.