My first musical memory was while growing up. My mother used to pick me up from school and as soon as I entered the car she would switch the radio station on. When I look back at it now it is pretty ironic that I work at a radio station I used to constantly listen to. I made a career out of my first musical memory and that to me is pretty awesome.
The first album I bought was II by Boyz II Men. I fell in love with the song Water Runs Dry. I purchased the album just for that one tune.
My first ever live set was back in the days while growing up. Abu Dhabi did not have a lot of music events for teenagers as it does today. Most of the events for teenagers were at hotel ballrooms and I remember my brother's friend had a little party which he asked me to DJ for. I was not in the country at that time, but when I was told about the opportunity I got so excited that I flew back just to DJ at that party. And that was my first ever live set.
My live shows now are at People by Crystal and Sax Club in Abu Dhabi. I have recently started to play at a new nightclub called Legends (Sheraton Abu Dhabi Resort). I also run my own event called The Project which is an urban night that takes place every Saturday at Le Royal Meridien in Abu Dhabi.
My favourite musician is Tupac. He is a poet and genius in Hip-hop music in my opinion. However, if I had to pick a contemporary artist it would be Kendrick Lamar. I love his flow and it is refreshing to listen to artists who keep rap music alive with their connection to topical situations in the world.
A song I wish I wrote would be Rise and Fall by Craig David, for sure. From the first time I heard it, I knew the lyrics by heart. Probably because I spent every free second listening to it on repeat, at least 20 times a day. The song brings back a lot of memories growing up.
• People by Crystal Abu Dhabi is located in The Collection at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. For reservations call 050 826 9698
sasaeed@thenational.ae
