“The stories we tell shape how we see the world, so representation isn’t just about fairness—it’s about truth.”
I think of it less as balancing and more as finding harmony. Each area feeds into the other. Acting teaches me empathy, music helps me express emotions that words can’t capture, and activism grounds me by reminding me why I’m doing all this. It’s challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Q. Speaking of challenges, you’ve been vocal about representation in the arts. How do you see the industry evolving in terms of diversity?
There’s been progress, but we’ve got a long way to go. It’s not just about having diverse faces on screen but also ensuring those voices are part of decision-making behind the scenes. The stories we tell shape how we see the world, so representation isn’t just about fairness—it’s about truth. Projects like Sound of Metal and Mogul Mowgli are examples where nuanced, authentic narratives can resonate universally.
When I first started, it felt like the industry didn’t know where to place someone like me. But I think the more we push for representation, the more we’ll see an embrace of stories that reflect the diversity of real life. It’s a collective effort, and I’m hopeful for the future.
Q. Sound of Metal was such a transformative role for you. How did you prepare for portraying Ruben, a drummer experiencing hearing loss?
That role was incredibly immersive. I spent months learning to play drums and American Sign Language (ASL). More importantly, I connected with people in the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities to understand their experiences. It wasn’t just about technical accuracy but capturing the emotional journey of someone navigating loss and finding a new identity.
One thing I learned was how central the community is in the Deaf world. It’s not about seeing hearing loss as a disability but as a culture with its own language, norms, and strengths. That shift in perspective was profound for me, and I tried to bring that authenticity to Ruben’s journey.
Q. Beyond acting, your music as Riz MC often tackles socio-political themes. What inspires your lyrics?
Life. My experiences as a British-Pakistani navigating identity, belonging, and the world around me are at the heart of my music. Tracks like “Post 9/11 Blues” or “The Long Goodbye” stem from personal and collective struggles. Music allows me to address issues directly and emotionally—it’s a way of speaking truth to power.
I’m also inspired by the resilience of marginalized communities. There’s a raw energy in turning struggle into art, and that’s where I find my voice. Music is such an immediate medium; it lets you cut straight to the heart of the matter, whether it’s joy, pain, or defiance.
Q. Your album The Long Goodbye was groundbreaking. Can you share more about its conceptual journey?
It’s a breakup album, but the twist is that it’s a metaphor for my relationship with Britain. It’s deeply personal and political, reflecting the pain of rejection and the complexity of love for a place that doesn’t always love you back. I wanted it to be raw, unfiltered, and relatable to anyone who’s faced exclusion.
The project was also a multimedia experience, with music videos and a short film. I wanted to create something that could speak to multiple senses, drawing people into the emotional weight of the story. It’s been amazing to see how audiences have connected with it—it’s a reminder of the power of art to spark dialogue.
Q. You’ve also launched the Pillars Fund to support Muslim artists. What inspired this initiative?
It’s about creating space. Muslim narratives are often absent or misrepresented in mainstream media. The Pillars Fund amplifies talent from our communities and challenges the monolithic stereotypes people have. We’re showing that our stories are diverse, dynamic, and deserve a platform.
The idea came from recognizing a gap. There’s so much talent out there, but without access to resources or networks, it often goes untapped. With Pillars, we’re not just funding projects but also mentoring and connecting artists so they can thrive in an industry that often overlooks them.
Q. What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects we should look out for?
I’m always cooking something up! I’m working on a new film that explores themes of migration and belonging, and there’s some music in the pipeline too. But more than projects, I’m focused on continuing to push boundaries and tell stories that matter.
I’m also collaborating with other artists on some exciting initiatives to highlight underrepresented voices. It’s about creating a ripple effect where each story told inspires another to be shared. And who knows, maybe there’s a return to theater in my future—I’ve always loved that immediate connection with an audience.
Q. One last question - What advice would you give to aspiring artists who look up to you?
Stay true to your voice. The world might try to box you in, but your authenticity is your strength. Take risks, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to fail. Every step of the journey teaches you something.
I’d also say, find your community. No one does this alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. And remember, art isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the process and the connections you make along the way.
BIO :
Riz Ahmed is a British-Pakistani actor, musician, and activist known for breaking barriers in Hollywood. He gained acclaim for his performances in 'Sound of Metal', which earned him an Academy Award nomination, and 'The Night Of', for which he won an Emmy. As Riz MC, his music addresses identity, belonging, and socio-political themes, with albums like 'The Long Goodbye'. A vocal advocate for diversity, he supports emerging talent through initiatives like the Pillars Fund, amplifying underrepresented voices in the arts.
0 Comments