Throughout my scope of work in radio and entertainment, I came across many talented people and when I came across the talent that Mothanna Anbar has, I was truly astonished with his vocal ability yet his down to earth personality. He truly symbolizes the true meaning of being an artist, he’s very professional and is always striving for the best. Once you hear Mothanna’s voice, you will realize that not only he’s talented at what he does; but also he’s very passionate about it.
Arab News sat down with Mothanna and had the below chat:
You got a very unique voice. When did you realize you got that talent?
I appreciate the compliment. According to its definition, a talent is a natural aptitude or skill. In my case, I’ve been practicing for 15 years trying to shape that skill to make it more vital and more relevant. I am still in my larva stage with the hope that one day it all comes to fruition.
What has been inspiring you throughout your musical journey?
Personal experiences, nature, happy moments, trials and tribulations in life. Sometimes a beautiful meaning of a poem or a detailed painting. Arts in general everywhere keeps me inspired.
Given the difficulties that face musicians in Saudi Arabia, how were you able to overcome these obstacles?
We all pray for better days to come, not only for the music industry but the entertainment industry in general within our region whether it’s cinema or theater or musical concerts. I keep practicing and nurturing the need to perform and express privately till hopefully the situation gets better.
What are your thoughts on the local music scene in Jeddah?
We have a lot of hidden and underground gems that are larger than life waiting to see the light of day. Some of those artists have succeeded in seizing the opportunity and managed to express beautifully and fully. I am really happy for those who made it and hopeful that the number of people who succeed becomes more than the hidden or those who are in the underground scene.
Tell us about “Story of A King.” You were with The Farabi when that song was released; but I still love your performance on that track.
Thank you again, “Story of a King” was composed and recorded prior to forming Al Farabi. And it was a tribute to King Faisal that embodies all what the poems were saying in that track. Then Al Farabi formed and they added their own touch which made it in their album.
How was your experience with Al-Farabi?
It was necessary to go through the experience in my opinion, I learned a lot and continue to learn and grow. The group has got a lot of talents and I wish them all the luck.
What are you currently working on? Are you forming a new group?
Currently we’re putting final touches on a new experiment called “Nibero,” which is an album that contains seven tracks, which combine various instruments and beats to form a unique new sound. The new group Nibero consists of family members and close friends which makes the feeling more intimate and more energetic.
What are your favorite musical choices?
The most difficult question by far. I listen to everything without prejudice.
All kinds of genres without exception. From classical to traditional, jazz, hip hop, soul, western, rock, Arabic, Rai and the list never finishes. I also listen to all kinds of sounds. Not necessarily music.
Tell Arab News readers something not a lot of people know about you.
I love food, sunrises more than sunsets and I am an animal lover.
Last but not least, tell us about your experience in being one of the lead actors in “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest” play?
I had the great pleasure in taking part in such a wonderful play. Being around such an amazing cast transformed my life and made me look at arts and stage performance differently. Theater is powerful and the performance given by each one of the cast on stage was reviving. I couldn’t sleep for days after the play from the excitement.
By Hassan Dennaoui
