We Caught Up With Egyptian Duo Ash and Felukah Amidst Their Tour

A quick chat with the dynamic duo!

On tour to celebrate the recent release of his debut album, dubbed Self-Discovery, French-Egyptian artist Ash is currently on a mission to spread his sound all across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Almost halfway through his series of worldwide concerts, the 27-year-old multi-instrumentalist, who’s famed for his breathtaking live-sessions, is now drawing audiences from far and wide to witness, first-hand, the signature beats that have solidified his reputation over the years.

Finally moving away from the single format to offer a sound that can be carried throughout an entire project, and tour, since Feb. 2 (the date Self-Discovery was released), a lot seems to have changed for the Cairo-born Montreal-based artist. Having outgrown his former status of rising star, the usual soloist now embraces a collaborative ethos, recognizing the magic that happens when two talents unite.

Now able to cast the spotlight on others rather than having to constantly be under it, his decision to invite Egyptian lyricist Felukah as the opening act of his US and Canada dates reflects this exact shift in mood. In the spirit of the age-old adage “the more, the merrier,” the duo marked their first collaborative moment on stage two weeks ago in Toronto— a cherished moment they are grateful to have been able to experience together.

“The tour has been amazing so far, reactions have been absolutely beautiful, especially in Toronto with Felukah’s first appearance,” Ash told MILLE. “She has been adding so much to the whole experience because of how talented she is. It’s truly gratifying to witness two Egyptians showcasing their craft across North America, sharing our rich culture and art with the world,” he added with enthusiasm.

“I’m so honored to be on my first tour with the man, the myth, the legend– Ash himself,” Felukah said. “We are building Arab and Egyptian legacy as we go. I can’t imagine what it’s going to open up in terms of opportunities, doors, and friendships. I’m ready to bask in all of it and can’t wait to see where it will take us,” she continued.

On how they were first introduced to one another, the two artists explained that it took everything but luck. In a region where connections and favors are so prevalent, or should we say the norm, in this scenario, genuine appreciation for their respective works played the role of the ultimate matchmaker. Nurturing a relationship that breathes fresh air into an otherwise fiercely competitive landscape and rivalrous industry, both Felukah and Ash expressed gratitude for having each other’s support, as they strive to represent their home on a global scale.

 

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“The connection was so organic. Many would assume it was the work of a label or an agency when it’s not any of that,” the Birds in Cairo singer revealed. “I remember first reaching out to Ash about a year and a half ago to share my respects and support his wave, especially in the western world and amongst the diaspora where it means so much having an artist like him. The connection eventually led to a first show at Le Poisson Rouge in New York where I opened for him in September of last year, and looking back it’s still one of my favorite performances to date, and I think that the same goes for him— or so he said,” she recounted, expanding on how from there, a real friendship blossomed.

“A couple of months ago, I got a call from Ash telling me about his upcoming tour, to which I replied that I had him covered whenever he’d be playing in New York. Before I had the time to finish the sentence, he chimed in suggesting opening for the whole tour. I was like say less, akeed I’m there!” she recalled.

Touring for the first time ever in her promising career, Felukah stepped onto Toronto’s stage with a confidence that belies her status of newcomer. As a seasoned rapper in our corner of the world, despite her extensive experience in our region’s scene, she remains humble, eager to learn and grow alongside her friend slash colleague. Acknowledging the challenges of performing in unfamiliar spaces with different music cultures and dynamics, she faces the hurdles of tour life, jet lag, and travel fatigue head-on.

@milleworlddotcom Here’s our recap of Ash and Felukah sharing the stage in Tornoto as part of the Self-Discovery tour. Link in bio Production: @therealyouisoffline ♬ original sound – milleworlddotcom

“I want to take away knowledge more than anything, about my craft, the business as well as the industry that I’m grateful to be a part of. I’m excited to learn, especially with Ash leading the way,” she shared, with her counterpart emphasizing on how “doing it for the fans will always outweigh any issue or struggle on the road.”

“The fact that I’m even here is a blessing in and of itself. I got into Toronto about an hour before going on stage after flying back and forth between Egypt, LA and New York. I did my makeup in about two minutes— shout out TikTok for showing me the ways— put on the outfit my stylist Tali Marjieh got ready for me and that’s it,” Felukah mused with a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration.

On whether they’ll collaborate beyond the stage or not, the duo revealed already having two tracks in the vault though they couldn’t share more details at this time. With anticipation running high amongst fans and loyal followers, the prospect of hearing their collaborative efforts in sonic form is undoubtedly an exciting one that carries the hope of an early release rather than a later one.

Credits:
Production:
@therealyouisoffline
Photography: @dany_victor_
Videography: @elmoudia @konnorkilloran @dany_victor_
Producer: @dany_victor_
Editor: @Yasseenashri
Production Assistant: @walid.aridi
Production Manager: @shen.mp3

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