ARBAZ the singer, songwriter and producer, hailing from Norway, has already achieved so much in his musical career. Originally known for being a rapper, ARBAZ is remembered from his unforgettable performance at the final in "Melodi Grand Prix Jr. 2010", and final in "UKM competitions" (2009) in Norway. With a strong passion for giving back to his community ARBAZ has been involved in many youth initiatives, including being dubbed in a youth series called "AF1" on NRK-Norwegian National TV channel, performing at the Norway Youth Football Cup and headlining the Red Cross 150th Anniversary at Oslo City Hall. Although he was raised in Norway, staying close to his Pakistani roots is a must, ARBAZ has worked hard to bring Desi music to a Norwegian audience, and over the past few years this success has echoed across the Globe. Having already gained support from the likes of BBC Asian Network, Brit Asia and B4U Music, ARBAZ is no stranger to the music scene. 2024 promises more music, collaborations and a long awaited tour.

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PERSONAL LIFE

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ARBAZ was born and raised Oslo, Norway in 1996.

His parents emigrated from Pakistan in late 70`s. Growing up in Norway, naturally Norwegian became his first-language while he kept his mother tongue mostly to himself or in his household. He did not speak Urdu and Punjabi to anyone else than his family. ARBAZ is the youngest of his siblings, one of his older brothers encouraged ARBAZ to start his musical journey with Norwegian rap back in 2004.

With access to music from all around the world, ARBAZ developed his own sound and did not officially release a desi song until 2015.

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DEBUT EP

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“Desi Scandinavian” is ARBAZ’s latest record. An EP that sits on personal references and adventures is an actual artistic wiz. He sails throughout the songs talking about life growing up as a desi Scandinavia comparing it with the life he had growing up in Pakistan.

Maze-like vocal melodies, complex rhythms & convoluted arrangements that are mature, his EP rises up a notch. The EP feels tax-free with unlimited excitement with each song. His voice is textured and promising throughout the EP. “Condo” is a single released from the EP, a light hearted rap song with subtle degrees paying homage to the South Asian music scene through the punchlines and references. His vocals modulate and interleave with the music, breezy and magnetic. Evocative and concise drum loops, frictionless layers of synths, completing the arrangement. He has increased his musicality in this EP which is imposing and splendid.

 

Talking about the EP ARBAZ said, ““Desi Scandinavian’ is a self-reflective EP. I started the writing process in 2020, and have been working on it since. I wanted to create something that was real, where I can reflect on my life and shed light on growing up as a desi in Scandinavia with my lifestyle where I am truly humbled but at the same time I feel spoiled/advantaged if I compare it to those growing up in Pakistan”. He’s channeled his inspiration in the right direction creating something amazing. Taking lyrical cues as he explains his thoughts and life escapades he glides smoothly. He adds, “The EP reflects who I am and also the mixture of different continent/places/environments. I belong to two different cultures, different lifestyles. I want to fly but still keep my feet on the ground.”

 

The quality of music that he’s offered in “Desi Scandinavian” is unshakable and powerful. Attractive music, ambient mood the EP is complete and whole. His devotion to hip-hop and his roots of who he really is shows through his music. It’s fresh, honest & exquisite.