Born in London to Sudanese parents, raised in Ohio, and now calling New York City home, Sinkane’s Ahmed Gallab is an artist with a real stake in our current cultural and political climate. His band are equally cosmopolitan as Gallab explains: “Our collective experience as children of the diaspora helped bring the music to life […]
Born in London to Sudanese parents, raised in Ohio, and now calling New York City home, Sinkane’s Ahmed Gallab is an artist with a real stake in our current cultural and political climate. His band are equally cosmopolitan as Gallab explains: “Our collective experience as children of the diaspora helped bring the music to life in the most honest way possible… “My new record is the story of an immigrant’s journey of self-discovery in the Trump era. The music is loud and raw, and it’s bursting with an energy unlike anything I’ve ever done before.” We caught up with Ahmed to discuss meditation, feeling worthy and The Beatles.
What has been your biggest life challenge so far and what did you do to overcome it?
My biggest life challenge to date has been accepting myself for who I am. I’ve grown up confused about my identity. As a kid, I never had too many friends like me. I grew up both in the United States and Sudan and I never felt accepted in either country. It made me feel incredibly insecure and confused. I’ve spent the last few years working through all of this and I am starting to feel good about myself
What do you think affects your mental health positively?
Acknowledgement from loved ones. Positive reinforcement from friends. Eating healthy. Working out.
And negatively?
Drugs and alcohol. Reading reviews or any kind of information about my music online or in magazines. YouTube, Facebook, Instagram comments.
What role does creativity play in your wellbeing?
It’s everything.
What is your go to music if you need a boost?
Pharaoh Sanders, Hollie Cooke, “Across The Universe” by The Beatles,
What are your favourite foods?
Szechuan, Korean BBQ, Sudanese, Sushi.
I’m a sucker for cheeseburgers, pizza and fried chicken sandwiches. But I don’t eat them as much as I’d like.
Do you like to exercise or meditate at all?
Yes. I meditate every morning and exercise 3-5 times a week.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received in regards to your mental wellbeing?
You are worthy. Never give up.
How have you changed since 15, and what advice would you give to that person?
I am no longer afraid of being myself and I have let go of a lot of frustrations and resentment. I actually do talk to my 15 year old self quite a bit through my inner child therapy.
The advice tell him is that I see and acknowledge him. He is absolutely worthy and deserves every bit of love that he can get. I constantly say to him that he needs not worry about being “different” or all the confusing things that kids say to him. He isn’t “different”. He is absolutely normal and it’s ok to accept that. I send him love every day.
‘Dépaysé’ was released on 31 May. Listen here: https://www.sinkane.lnk.to/depayse