A few years ago, Prince Muhammad Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal committed himself to sponsoring the Saudi singer, Abdul Majeed Abdullah and furthering his career. The prince supported the singer both morally and financially. He was able to introduce him to many well-known poets and composers and in time, Abdul Majeed Abdullah became one of the most famous and popular Saudi singers. Today, the prince is once again sponsoring a talented young Saudi: 15 year-old Abbas Ibrahim, a student in the final year of middle school. The prince has introduced him to prominent poets and composers and the young man has entered into a 15-year contract which, because of his age, his father had to sign for him. After the release of his album, "Nadait," people began to compare him and his talent to Muhammad Abdu, the most famous Saudi singer. Sayidaty met Abbas and the following interview is the result.
How did you get into this business? Is anyone in your family in the music industry?
It all began two years ago when my uncle visited Sami Ehsan, the famous Saudi composer. He listened to me and agreed to train me. He prepared my first album and composed many of its songs. Then he introduced me to the famous poet, Prince Muhammad Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal. The prince liked my voice and agreed to sponsor me. He thought it best that the public first hear me performing known songs. He chose six songs for the first album 'Esmaoony.' Since the songs were well known, it was a good way for the public to get to know me.
For your first album, weren't you supposed to use new songs composed by Sami Ehsan?
Sami Ehsan is a big name in the world of composing. It is a lucky break for a beginner like me to be able to sing one of his songs. I thank him for supporting and helping me.
When you released your first album, 'Esmaoony,' many said that you were imitating Muhammad Abdu. When you released your second album, people said that you had been affected by his style. What is your response?
He is certainly a very talented singer. I do not deny that I am influenced by his voice and style. At the same time, people who look closely at my style in the second album will notice that I am trying to shed some of that influence. In my future albums, I will gradually develop my own personality and style.
What about your education?
I am in the third year of middle school and am one of the top 10 students. Next year, I will go to Cairo to study art and no doubt, I will benefit greatly from being there and studying. My specialty will be vocals.
In your second album with 12 different songs, some say the songs are beyond your age. Do you feel that you understand the songs?
I would not sing something that I did not understand.
Which song did you think would be your most popular one?
The song 'Nadait' was very successful and the video for it was remarkable. I think all the songs are beautiful and I am happy when they are a success.
Some say that you are competing with Muhammad Abdu and Abdul Majeed Abdullah. What do you say?
Muhammad Abdu and Abdul Majeed Abdullah are famous singers and they have their own fans. I will be competing with myself and I will give my best to those who enjoy my songs.
Sayidaty also spoke to Ahmad Al-Guraibi, an official from Megastar Company. We asked him if the company was making a serious effort to launch a new star.
Yes, the company is very interested in Abbas Ibrahim. There is a plan for him to go to Cairo to study music and at the same time, we will release a new album.