Introducing AJ Abdullah, a singer songwriter from Dallas, Texas who delivers his soulful melody and lyrics with an alluring graceful voice.
AJ (right) primarily writes music with his ukulele and frequently collaborates with his friends Mihir Lulay (left, guitarist and producer), Sam McClure (keyboard) and Sean Ghedi. Although his works can be categorized as indie or bedroom pop, I find that AJ's engaging melodies have a lot of mainstream appeal. His easy-listening vibe immediately reminds me of Jason Mraz.
AJ's main influences include the likes of Stevie Wonder, Benny Sings, Capital Cities, and Khai Dreams. The track that got my attention is his latest release Oh, the Moon!, a tune that meshes his tender vocals over a relaxing lofi chillhop-like beat.
You can also enjoy the song on week August 11 of our discovery list.
In true MP fashion, below are pretty random questions thrown at him and well, let’s see what he has to say!
What is the funniest name you have actually heard used in the real world?
Throckmorton. I mean - how. Just how did this name come into conception? Truly mindboggling.
What is something that you just recently realized that you are embarrassed you didn’t realize earlier?
I realized that I have this bad habit of looking away when I make eye contact while walking towards someone I know. I just get anxious and then try to make it up for it with more eye contact, which induces more anxiety. A catch 22 if I’ve heard of one.
In one sentence, how would you sum up the internet?
Either a blessing or a hindrance, and on some occasions, both.
What is in your fridge right now?
Coconut water. So much coconut water. I think I have a problem, but that's for another day.
What is the stupidest thing you’ve done because someone dared you to?
Out of the dares that I’m comfortable talking about on the internet, I think it would have to be the time Mihir and I took Trump signs that were out in front of our public library. Like any attention-seeking adolescent, we decided to post our victory on social media. We were celebrated like heroes until the republican guy who owned the signs contacted us (he was not happy). After he threw some racial slurs at us we decided to put the case to rest but wow, what a time to be alive.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I wrote and performed in my first play last spring! It was a show called “Land of Opportunity”, a comedy that followed the story of 2 Muslim brothers trying to find their place in America. I’ve loved acting for a long time, but I finally felt represented when I got the chance to play a Muslim character on stage. Definitely one of my favorite experiences.
What are your 3 favorite movies?
Silver Linings Playbook, Donnie Darko, and anything with Robin Williams.
And there you have it. Check out AJ's music if you enjoy engaging melodies and soulful vocals. Here are all the different channels to connect with him.
Twitter: @AJ_Jeremiah
Instagram: @jereemiahh
Tik Tok: @aj_abdullah1