Rahma Riyad: The Recording Academy... A New Door to the World
Artist Rahma Riad expressed her joy at officially joining the US Recording Academy, the organization behind the global Grammy Awards, viewing this step as a new milestone in her artistic career that opens a broader space for her to connect with the global music community.
Riad told Al-Rai, “Music has always been my space for self-expression and identity. My journey began in Iraq, and today a new door has opened for me toward the world. I am very happy to join the Recording Academy and to be part of a global music community where I can contribute with my voice and experience, with great pride.”
She added, “It is beautiful that this step coincides with the release of my new song, ‘Wali,’ which delighted me greatly, especially since I experienced a wonderful connection with the audience during the same period, thanks to the resonance the song garnered from its very first moments of release. I feel that both joys have come together, making this period very special for me.”
Regarding the song, which features lyrics by Fiqar Al-Majid, composition by Qabas Yousef, and arrangement by Omar Sabbagh, Riad said, “I am very happy with the resonance the song has received since its release and with the reactions I have gotten from the audience. I always anticipate people’s feelings toward any new work I present, because reaching the listener and touching their emotions is the most beautiful feeling an artist can experience.”
She continued, “I loved it because it carries an Iraqi spirit that is close to my heart, along with a romantic mood and a different feeling. I was keen to present a work that resembles me, while also bringing something new to my experience. Thank God, the audience responded to it with such affection.”
During her remarks, she praised her team, saying, “Fiqar wrote lyrics with a feeling close to mine, Qabas provided a melody that served the mood we wanted to convey, and Omar added many details through his arrangement that appeared in the final image of the song. Teamwork was very important to me, and I believe this harmony reached the audience.”
Regarding her membership in the Recording Academy, she clarified, “For me, this membership is not just a title or a milestone to celebrate, but an opportunity to be part of a global music community, exchange experiences and expertise, and learn from diverse experiences around the world. Most importantly, I carry my Iraqi identity with me in every step.”
Riad emphasized that her ambitions go beyond mere popularity, stating, “I want to reach a larger audience with my music, but without losing my identity or my unique voice. I am proud that my journey began in Iraq, and every new step I take today feels like an extension of that beginning.”
She concluded by affirming that the coming phase will see more artistic works and projects, saying, “I still have much to offer, and I hope my future steps will meet the audience’s good expectations, allowing me to continue presenting works that bring them joy and resemble me at the same time.”
