5 Questions with Ahmed Moneka of Moneka Arabic Jazz 

"It has truly been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the support and encouragement of all those who have helped us along the way."

Ahmed Moneka is a multidisciplinary artist whose mission is to "spread love, peace, acceptance, and a sense of 'global community' by connecting cultures, consequently countering the negative, stereotypical perspective of Arab culture". Among his many projects, Moneka Arabic Jazz stands out as an emblem of this mission.

In anticipation of the Moneka Arabic Jazz concert on April 18th at the Hollywood Theatre, we asked the effervescent bandleader a few questions about his journey with music, his inspirations, and his favourite venues to perform in. Read below to learn more about Ahmed Moneka and Moneka Arabic Jazz:

Moneka Arabic Jazz makes their Vancouver debut on April 18th

1. What drew you to start making music, and how has that passion grown over time?

"My connection with music started when I was just four years old, learning my family's Sufi-African ritual. But when I moved to Canada in 2015, the language barrier drew me to start making music. As an actor who lost his words, I wanted to share and communicate my culture through music. I was fascinated by how music is a universal language that can bring people together, so I started sharing my Arabic/Iraqi heritage with my new home and people. I also realized that there's a lack of information about Iraq and Arabic countries among people here in Canada. So, I became more determined to deliver joyful, heart-ful music that makes people enjoy and learn about my warm Arabic culture.

It's a great feeling to see people appreciate my music and culture. I'm glad that I can make a difference through my passion for music."

 2. Can you share a memorable moment that shaped your musical journey?

Moskitto Bar

"My first band in Canada is Moskitto Bar, a fusion of Balkan, Celtic, and Arabic music. I was inspired by the compliments and interest I received from people who heard my Arabic songs and melodies. I created Moneka Arabic Jazz, a musical project that would serve as a bridge between my Arabic, African, and North American journeys. As our reputation grew, we started getting offers to perform at international events. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to share our music with people around the world.

Today, Moneka Arabic Jazz is a national and international band that has captivated audiences with our soulful and eclectic style. It has truly been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the support and encouragement of all those who have helped us along the way."

3. How do you think collaborating with other artists influences your music?

"The collaboration allowed me to expand my horizons.  For example, in this project, Demetrios Petsalakes is Greek, and he learned Jazz and rock and played the oud Arabic instrument. Waleed Abulhamid is Sudanis, a professor at UFT and Humber College, and he is very knowledgeable about African music and playing the bass. Max Sennit is also a drummer and a JUNO winner drummer with another band. Selcuk Suna is a well-known Turkish Saxophonist, and Majd Sukkar specializes in Arabic Maqam, originally from Syria… All these musicians add a lot to the band's arrangement and sound."

4. What themes or topics do you often explore in your songs, and why do they matter to you?

"Love, Safety, Togetherness, Immigration, Women's rights and hope, surviving... because I want to reveal who we are [and] why we deserve to live."

Photo: Ksenija Hotic

5. What are you listening to these days?

"Umi, Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, Cariokee, Strome"

Bonus Question: Do you have a favourite venue to perform in?

In Toronto:
Drom
Lula Longe