Mumbai, 24th January 2023: Norwegian Singer and producer ARBAZ releases his debut EP ‘Desi Scandinavian’ with the release of the song ‘Condo’.
Speaking on the EP ARBAZ states, “ ‘Desi Scandinavian’ is a self-reflective EP. I started the writing process in 2020 and have been working on it since then. 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. The EP reflects who I am and 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.” 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. 2023 promises more music, collaborations and a long-awaited tour.
Watch the song here:
Hailing from Norway bilingual Singer, Songwriter and producer ARBAZ has already achieved accolades in his musical career. Originally known for being a rapper, ARBAZ is remembered for his unforgettable performance at the final in “Melodi Grand Prix Jr. 2010”, and as a finalist 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.
‘Desi Scandinavian’, is derived from the success of his single, which was also titled the same. With the determination to showcase his versatility as an artist who seeks to break boundaries and bridge the gap between cultures, ARBAZ’s debut EP is an exploration of his own identity as he raps in Punjabi and English, with some Norwegian words. Having been in the making for the past 3 years, the EP is a testament to his life experiences and the two cultures he has grown up with which he blends so seamlessly through his bilingual lyrics and experimental production.
The 5-track bilingual EP showcases ARBAZ’s skills as a multi-dimensional rapper, with a sound for every mood. His Hip-Hop track ‘Condo’ is a light-hearted song that lyrically pays homage to the South Asian music scene through punchlines and references, produced by ARBAZ himself, and will be the first music video to drop from the album. The track ‘Vogue’ is ARBAZ speaking the truth about his emotions and vulnerability; written during the pandemic it sheds light on his mental health during that period, when like many of us he was suffering from the changes and isolation that he faced during that period. Taking us on an emotional journey, ARBAZ’s Afro-pop track ‘Baby Girl’ is inspired by his own love story, as he dedicates the track to his love, and those who have helped him. ‘Jealousy’, is Inspired by the story of the prophet Yusuf who was killed by his two brothers because of jealousy, ARBAZ relates this to his own personal experience of betrayal from past close friends and people in the industry who were envious of him. The second part of the track ‘Desi Scandinavian’ ARBAZ reflects on his achievements as one of the most prominent desi artists from Norway, ARBAZ talks us through a journey that was never built on hand-outs. From production to lyricism, ARBAZ’s debut EP exemplifies his abilities as one of the most innovative artists in the South Asian Norwegian music scene. Based on real life incidents, experiences, and feelings, ‘Desi Scandinavian’ is a highly relatable project that will leave listeners wanting more.