In an enlightening interview with Deeds magazine, Saudi Arabian R&B sensation Hamza Hawsawi opens up about his groundbreaking journey from Middle Eastern music enthusiast to international soul artist. The X Factor Arabia winner reveals how western artists like Michael Jackson, Boyz II Men, and Babyface shaped his distinctive sound while navigating the complex landscape of creating contemporary R&B music in Saudi Arabia.
Early influenced by vocal powerhouses Joe Thomas and Kevon Edmonds, Hamza Hawsawi's musical evolution represents a fascinating fusion of western soul music with Middle Eastern sensibilities. Despite initial challenges of being a non-Arabic language performer in the Saudi music industry, his persistence and authenticity eventually led to breakthrough success on X Factor Arabia, marking a pivotal moment in his career trajectory.
As Saudi Arabia undergoes significant cultural transformation, Hamza Hawsawi stands at the forefront of the kingdom's evolving music scene. He acknowledges his role in paving the way for emerging Saudi artists in alternative genres, while carefully balancing traditional cultural values with R&B's contemporary expression. Looking ahead, the artist teases ambitious plans for monthly releases throughout 2024-2025, featuring collaborations with local, regional, and international artists.
Deeds: Hamza Hawsawi, as a Saudi-born artist, how did your journey into R&B music begin? What inspired you to pursue a genre that is not traditionally associated with the region?
Hamza Hawsawi: My journey into R&B and soul music started in my childhood. I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by various types of music. I listened to Arabic styles as well as artists like Michael Jackson and Prince, which opened my eyes to new sounds. However, it was when I heard Boyz II Men, Babyface, Kevon Edmonds, and Joe that I truly connected with R&B. Their music gave me a feeling I had never experienced before, and from that moment on, R&B became my favorite genre. It was a natural choice for me when I began singing and making music.
Deeds: Who were some of the major R&B artists that influenced your sound? How do you blend your Saudi heritage with the soulful elements of R&B?
Hamza Hawsawi: I was first captivated by vocal harmonies when listening to Boyz II Men. Hearing Joe Thomas' "I Wanna Know" showed me the true power of the voice as an instrument. Babyface’s songwriting taught me the importance of the pen and emotional expression. My goal has always been to create R&B music in the way I grew up loving it, while incorporating my own stories, experiences, and reflections. I’ve experimented with various sounds and genres, blending Arabic elements and local instruments to create something unique. But when it comes to R&B, I stay true to the style I fell in love with.
Deeds: What challenges did you face breaking into the international music scene as an R&B singer from Saudi Arabia? Were there any cultural or societal barriers you had to overcome?
Hamza Hawsawi: One of the first challenges I faced was being a Saudi artist singing in a language other than Arabic, especially when traditional Arabic music was getting all the attention. When I started making R&B, I felt like I was in a vacuum. Looking back, this was a great position because it allowed me to develop my sound without outside pressure. Over time, I connected with other artists and music lovers with similar tastes, and things began to take off. Live performances were also challenging, as there wasn't much demand for Saudi R&B performers, but that period of obscurity helped me hone my craft until the right moment arrived.
Deeds: Winning X Factor Arabia was a major turning point for you. How did that experience shape your career, and what impact did it have on your music?
Hamza Hawsawi: After years of working in the shadows, X Factor was the culmination of my hard work. When I joined the show, my primary goal wasn’t to win, but to gain more experience and refine my craft. I didn’t expect an R&B artist like me to win a show in the Middle East, where most contestants performed in Arabic. However, I brought my best to the stage, and fortunately, I was able to win. That experience boosted my confidence and opened many doors for me as an artist.
Deeds: The Saudi music scene has seen significant changes over the last decade. How do you see the R&B genre growing in Saudi Arabia? Do you feel a responsibility to pave the way for other Saudi artists in this space?
Hamza Hawsawi: I definitely feel responsible for solidifying the presence of R&B in the region, alongside many other talented soul and R&B artists. With the increasing focus on music in Saudi Arabia today, more artists are pursuing their passions, including alternative genres like R&B. This shift creates massive opportunities for collaboration and growth in the local music scene. I believe the future will showcase R&B in Saudi Arabia the way it deserves to be seen.
Deeds: You’ve collaborated with various international artists. How have these collaborations influenced your music, and can you share any details about upcoming projects or new music releases?
Hamza Hawsawi: Collaborating with different artists, producers, and songwriters is one of my favorite ways to create music. It allows me to learn from others and approach my own work with fresh perspectives. Each collaboration teaches me something new about songwriting and performance. Looking ahead, I plan to release new music monthly throughout 2024 and 2025, and I’m excited about upcoming collaborations with local, regional, and international artists.
Deeds: Saudi Arabia is known for its rich culture and traditions. How do you balance these cultural influences with the modern and sometimes provocative nature of R&B?
Hamza Hawsawi: Being mindful of Saudi Arabia's generally conservative culture is important to me. While R&B can be provocative in its vulnerability and expression, I always try to respect our traditions when writing music. However, there are times when I allow myself to fully embrace the genre without limitations, especially when a song speaks to something deeply personal. It’s about finding the balance between staying true to the genre and honoring my roots.
Deeds: How does it feel to perform your music for audiences outside Saudi Arabia? Have you noticed any differences in how your music is received internationally compared to at home?
Hamza Hawsawi: Every audience and stage is unique, which is one of the beauties of performing. I’ve noticed that in Saudi Arabia, the feedback I receive tends to focus on the overall experience of the performance, while international audiences often zero in on the details—such as the lyrics, vocal expression, and instrumentation. Both types of feedback are valuable and provide insight into how different cultures experience art.
Deeds: Music is often seen as a tool for social change. Do you think your success and that of other Saudi artists can influence cultural perceptions in the country, especially regarding the role of music and creativity?
Hamza Hawsawi: I believe this shift is already happening. Artists of all styles are being given opportunities to showcase their work, and this is having a big impact on our confidence as individuals and as a community. The establishment of music institutes, the integration of music into schools, the increase in festivals, and the rise of local record labels—all these factors point to a growing recognition of music’s influence in Saudi Arabia.
Deeds: What advice would you give to young Saudi artists trying to break into the global music industry? What key lessons have you learned in your journey?
Hamza Hawsawi: First, it’s important to remember that as artists, we are constantly evolving, and our personal growth goes hand in hand with our artistic journey. This is a lifelong process, and loving the journey itself is key to longevity. The path won’t always be easy, so patience is essential. Also, collaboration is vital—while the creative journey is personal, it’s also a community effort. We learn from each other. Finally, don’t be afraid to be fearless in your art. Authenticity is what makes your work stand out, and that’s what people will connect with.
Listen to more music from Hamza Hawsawi here
Watch Wonder official here
