Abbas Alaskari’s Journey from a Struggling Musician to a Global Icon
Abbas ali Sharif Alaskari’s rise to fame is an incredible tale of perseverance, talent, and innovation. Unlike many artists who have strong industry connections or financial backing, Abbas started from nothing. Born into a financially struggling family in the UK, he had no mentors or wealthy benefactors to open doors for him in the highly competitive music industry. His success is purely self-made, fueled by a deep passion for music and an unyielding determination to break through the barriers of the industry.
From an early age, Abbas was drawn to the guitar, fascinated by its ability to express emotion and culture. However, affording an instrument was a challenge. He worked multiple odd jobs to buy his first second-hand guitar, and from that moment, he dedicated himself to mastering it. Influenced by both British rock and traditional Middle Eastern music, Abbas developed a unique sound that would later define his career.
The Early Struggles of an Independent Artist
Knowing that formal education in music could help him refine his skills, Abbas enrolled at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP), London, where he pursued a Bachelor of Music in Contemporary Music Performance. Unlike many students who had financial support, Abbas had to work tirelessly to fund his education, juggling part-time jobs while spending endless hours perfecting his technique.
To gain exposure, Abbas began performing in underground music venues like The 100 Club, Camden Assembly, and The Jazz Café. His innovative approach to guitar playing—particularly his fretless guitar techniques influenced by the oud—set him apart from other musicians. His unique style blended Middle Eastern maqam scales with British rock riffs, a sound that intrigued both audiences and fellow artists.
Finding His Place in the UAE Music Scene
In 2013, Abbas made a bold decision to move to Dubai, a city where the music scene was still developing. Seeing an opportunity to introduce his fusion style, he co-founded the band Desert Echoes, which quickly gained recognition for blending Arabic melodies with progressive rock elements. The band released three successful albums:
Echoes of the Dunes (2015) – A fresh and experimental fusion of Western rock and Middle Eastern instrumentation.
Sands of Sound (2018) – A deeper, more refined musical exploration, blending heavy guitar riffs with traditional Arabic melodies.
Lost in the Mirage (2021) – A personal and introspective album, reflecting Abbas’s journey as an artist caught between two cultures.
While in Dubai, Abbas also established himself as a music producer and sound engineer at Soundscape Studios, where he collaborated with emerging artists and produced soundtracks for independent films and commercials. His ability to bridge Eastern and Western musical styles made him one of the most sought-after musicians in the region.
Returning to the UK as a Solo Artist
After a decade of success in the UAE, Abbas returned to London in 2023 to pursue his solo career. His latest album, "Between Two Worlds," captures his experience of straddling different cultures and musical influences. Featuring electronic elements, traditional oud melodies, and powerful rock anthems, the album is a true reflection of his evolution as an artist.
His performances at major festivals like the Cambridge Folk Festival and Glastonbury Emerging Talent showcases have further solidified his position as a world-class musician. Abbas’s ability to connect with audiences from diverse backgrounds has made him a pioneer in world music.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Despite achieving global recognition, Abbas remains committed to helping aspiring musicians. As a teacher at the British & Irish Modern Music Institute (BIMM), London, he shares his knowledge of fusion guitar techniques and music production. Additionally, he runs an online academy where he mentors young artists on how to merge Middle Eastern and Western sounds.
The Secret Behind His Success
Abbas Alaskari’s journey is proof that success in the music industry does not require privilege or powerful connections—it requires passion, resilience, and a relentless work ethic. With no godfather in the industry and no financial support, he carved his own path through talent and perseverance.
From playing in underground clubs to headlining international festivals, Abbas’s story is a testament to the power of hard work and innovation. He continues to inspire the next generation of musicians, proving that with grit, guitars, and glory, anything is possible.
