19 March 2026

How Kanye West Inspired Sudanese Artist G Salih's Hip-Hop Journey

The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam

About

Join us for an incredible conversation from Doha, Qatar, as we sit down with Sudanese-American hip-hop artist and activist G Salih. In this deep dive, we explore the delicate balance between creative expression and the business of music, alongside the need for global advocacy for Sudan. G Salih shares his journey from the DMV to the international stage, discussing how his background in international business helps him navigate the industry while keeping ownership of his art.

We also discuss the current humanitarian crisis in Sudan and how the diaspora is mobilizing to make a real difference through organizations like the Sudanese Diaspora Network and Nile Nights.

Key Highlights

THE BUSINESS OF MUSIC - Why owning your masters is non-negotiable for independent artists and how to structure fair deals.

CULTURAL FOUNDATIONS - Growing up in the Sudanese community of Northern Virginia and the impact of immigrant values.

HUMANITARIAN WORK - The mission of the Sudanese Diaspora Network and providing emergency relief on the ground.

THE FUTURE OF SUDAN - Navigating the current conflict and the hope for a sustainable, self-sustaining future.

CHAPTERS

0:00 Welcome to the Oasis from Doha

3:15 Starting Out in the Soundcloud Era

6:45 The Impact of College Dropout and Kanye West

10:30 Growing Up in the Sudanese Diaspora

14:15 Moving to the Suburbs and Culture Shock

18:00 Studying International Business at JMU

23:15 The Strategy Behind G Salih

28:00 Signing and Owning Masters

33:45 Breaking Down Royalties and Recoupment

39:30 Low Cost Recording vs Marketing Strategy

44:15 Why G Salih Avoids Major Labels

49:00 The State of the Music Industry Today

54:00 Redefining Success and Advocacy Through Art

58:30 Rapid Fire: Top 5 Hip Hop Albums

1:03:00 The Sudanese Diaspora Network Mission

1:08:15 Humanitarian Relief Efforts in Sudan

1:13:30 Nile Nights: Global Community Events

1:18:45 Meeting His Wife and Life in Qatar

1:22:15 The Current Crisis and Hope for Sudan

1:24:45 Closing Thoughts and What is Next

If you enjoyed this conversation, please RATE & REVIEW the podcast.

Share your thoughts on the music business or the situation in Sudan by leaving comment below.