Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your childhood impacted your musical direction?
A: I was born in Morocco, lived briefly in France, and then moved to Canada. Moving often—whether across countries or cities—taught me to find home within myself. Growing up queer in a Muslim family deepened this further. My inner world became a sanctuary, a safe space without boundaries. I believe that made it the ideal space for creativity. It was simply a matter of time before I allowed myself to embrace it, break down mental and external barriers, and eventually share it through my art.
Q: How are you planning on growing your fan base and sharing your music with the world? What message do you have for anyone who is about to discover “El Mehdi”?
A: Right now, I would say my focus is on connecting with people and building a nurturing community. For me, it’s about doing what I love, being my most authentic self, and trusting it will resonate with others. As for a message: Marhaba! No matter who you are or where you come from, I want to create a space where everyone feels seen, celebrated, and valued. My music is for anyone seeking connection—whether with others or with parts of themselves. I hope it inspires honoring every facet of ourselves and reminds us that we have the power to rewrite our own narratives.
Q: Who is the most inspiring artist for you right now? And where do you find inspiration for making music?
A: At this moment, I’m really enjoying Najat Aatabou’s music. I grew up knowing her songs, but I’ve recently dived into her albums. Her voice and way of singing are so captivating. When it comes to inspiration, musically, it’s about the blend of different influences and genres that shaped my ear and taste. As for what I write and how I bring it to life visually, it draws from my personal experiences and the diverse, sometimes contrasting realities I’ve lived. These days, I pay attention to challenging my own self-censorship. When a voice in my head says “you shouldn’t go there” that’s exactly where I try to go.
Q: Can you tell us about the story or message behind the debut single, “EL KASS HLOU”?
A: “EL KASS HLOU” is a tribute to Houcine Slaoui’s original song, which I discovered years after being familiar with Haja El Hamdaouia’s popular version. Her rendition transformed the song into a soft ode to Moroccan tea, but Houcine’s version uses the “sweet glass” as a metaphor for alcohol—which is haram. This made me reflect on how parts of our culture and history are censored. That realization sparked my desire to honor the original story Houcine wanted to convey.
Q: How would you describe your sound in one word for potential listeners?
A: Without taking it so seriously, I’d say Moroqueer Pop.
Q: Did you face any challenges while writing or recording “EL KASS HLOU”?
A: Transcribing the original lyrics was a challenge. They weren’t available anywhere, and the poor audio quality of the original recording made deciphering some of the words very difficult.
Q: What is the message of your music? And what are your goals as an artist?
A: I want to convey a sense of hope. My goal is to bring more light into the world and show that things aren’t just black or white—there are so many shades. As an artist, I’m here to add my own color to the spectrum. It’s these differences that make our world vibrant.
Q: Who is your dream artist to collaborate with? (dead or alive)
A: Early 2000s Shakira. To me, she embodied the beauty of celebrating every part of her identity. I was completely obsessed with Ojos Así as a child. Everything about her was mesmerizing. She sang in Spanish, English, and Arabic with a unique vocal style, danced Baladi, added a rock twist with her electric guitar, and somehow kept it all rooted in pop. It was a bold, honest, and inspiring fusion ahead of its time.
Q: What is your advice for people interested in pursuing music as a career or for those trying to enter the industry?
A: Find what makes you unique—because we all are—and unpack that. I firmly believe people can feel when something is authentic, and authenticity always resonates. Trends may fade, but something honest and genuine will endure.
Q: If you could go back in time and give a younger you some words of wisdom, what would they be?
A: Patterns you were stuck in were just reactions to your environment. You weren’t the problem. Find your tribe, find a space where every part of you can breathe. And everything will fall into place.
