The Beat of Change: Cosmicat on Redefining Music in the Kingdom
September 18th, 2024
As Saudi Arabia’s first female DJ and producer, Cosmicat fuses Saudi heritage with modern electronic beats, shaping the Kingdom’s evolving soundscape amidst the transformative Vision 2030.
Cosmicat, born Nouf Sufyani, is not just spinning records—she’s crafting a new cultural narrative for Saudi Arabia. As the Kingdom undergoes a cultural renaissance, she stands at the forefront of its musical revolution. Since beginning her career in 2017, Cosmicat has witnessed the rapid growth of electronic music in Saudi Arabia, a genre once niche that is now one of the country’s most celebrated. By staying true to her Saudi roots while embracing contemporary sounds, she seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. As Vision 2030 creates new opportunities for creatives, Cosmicat continues to push boundaries, empower local artists, and break down barriers for women in the music industry. We sit down with the trailblazing DJ to
“My Saudi identity is a part of me, and I take it everywhere I go. It’s reflected in my fashion choices, music taste, and how I carry myself.’’
As Saudi Arabia’s first female DJ and producer, how do you see your role in shaping the Kingdom’s music landscape, especially in the context of the evolving entertainment industry?
I’m simply indulging in what I love most—listening to and creating music, discovering new sounds from regional artists, and collaborating with them. I’d love to keep this process as spontaneous and playful as possible, without focusing too much on the industry side.
Electronic music is still a growing genre in KSA. How have you seen the local audience’s reception to your work change over time, and what has surprised you most about the scene’s evolution?
I’ve been in the music scene since 2017, about seven years now. What we do as electronic music artists has evolved from being very niche to becoming one of the trendiest genres, thanks to local festivals and event promoters. Our sound now reaches many people and has become familiar.
Your work bridges Saudi heritage with modern electronic music. How do you balance these influences in your music, and how important is it for you to represent Saudi culture through your sound?
It’s about being authentic, putting my identity and personal spin on my music. Many elements influence one’s work, with cultural identity and past experiences playing a significant role. It’s always an honour to represent my country.
The entertainment industry in KSA has opened up significantly in recent years. How has this shift impacted your opportunities as an artist, and what challenges have you encountered as a trailblazer in the Kingdom?
There are certainly more opportunities for artists in Saudi Arabia than ever before. We recognise that music helps shape our heritage and narrate our stories. It’s now much easier for new artists to break through and make a career out of art. It was more challenging in the past, due to a lack of learning opportunities and overcoming the stigma around art as a career.
Can you speak about the role of Vision 2030 in supporting artists like yourself? How do you think initiatives like these will continue to influence the Saudi creative and music scenes?
The changes following Vision 2030 were essential in creating opportunities, such as scholarships, platforms, and greater support for artists in Saudi Arabia. I feel we are still building a solid foundation for the music industry and opening doors for upcoming talents.
You’ve performed at major international festivals and events. How do you integrate your Saudi identity in these global settings, and what reactions do you get from audiences unfamiliar with the Saudi music scene?
My Saudi identity is a part of me, and I take it everywhere I go. It’s reflected in my fashion choices, music taste, and how I carry myself. I still enjoy seeing the surprised looks when people ask where I’m from and I tell them. It makes them curious to learn more about us and our art scene.
As a pioneer, what advice would you give to aspiring female DJs and musicians in Saudi Arabia who are looking to break into the industry? What steps do you think can be taken to further empower women in the local music scene?
Knowledge is key—do your homework and expand your research. Some things won’t come to you unless you get up and actively look for them. Always trust your instincts. Resilience is everything. Don’t let criticism or rejection stop you from doing what you love. They told Beyoncé she didn’t have a hit on her first solo album, but that didn’t stop her. We all know how it ended—with her becoming one of the greatest entertainers alive.
Less is more or more is more?
There’s nothing wrong with being a little extra.
What is style to you?
I like to think of myself as an imaginary character and dress accordingly.
What is authenticity to you?
Being true to yourself, knowing who you are and what you want.
“Don’t let criticism or rejection stop you from doing what you love.’’
