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

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

Author: theoasishaqqislam March 19, 2026 Duration: 1:16:02
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. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Follow The Oasis IG:haqqislamoasis Tiktok: haqqislamoasis Follow G Salih -  IG: @therealgsalih

Each week on The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam, host and music industry veteran A. Haqq Islam creates a space for dialogue that feels both necessary and rare. These are conversations that move beyond surface-level headlines, delving into the tangible influence of Islamic faith and Muslim individuals within the most dynamic sectors of modern life. You’ll hear discussions exploring how faith intersects with creative and professional worlds, from the rhythms of Hip Hop and the narratives of film to the strategies of business, the innovation in technology, and the expressions of fashion and sports. This podcast consistently highlights the stories of Muslims who are actively shaping culture, yet whose contributions are often overlooked within mainstream narratives. The tone is intimate and refreshing, offering a perspective that consciously challenges narrow, stereotypical views, whether domestic or international. By focusing on real impact and personal journeys, the series builds a more nuanced understanding. It’s not about preaching, but about presenting a vibrant, multifaceted portrait of engagement and identity. Tuning into this podcast means accessing a forum where spirituality, ambition, and cultural commentary meet, all guided by a host with deep roots in the industry he discusses. The result is a compelling blend of personal insight and broader cultural analysis, making each episode a point of connection and discovery.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam
Podcast Episodes
35 Years of Marriage: Rufus & Jenny's Secret to Success [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:08
This episode of The Oasis features a conversation with Rufus and Jenny Triplett, a power couple who have celebrated 35 incredible years of marriage. Named Ebony Magazine's 2012 Couple of the Year and recognized for their…
Creating Generational Wealth: Attorney Ali’s Expert Tips [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:16
Attorney India Ali joins this episode of The Oasis to share her inspiring journey from Division 1 athlete to a successful attorney empowering families through wealth building and estate planning. Hosted by Haqq Islam, th…
From NBA Star to Faith Icon: Mahmoud's Inspiring Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:11:18
Join us for an inspiring episode featuring the legendary NBA star turned faith icon, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf. This conversation explores Mahmoud's journey from a young athlete overcoming humble beginnings in Gulfport, Mississ…
How Ain't Afraid Inspires Muslim Girls Worldwide [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:27
Meet Ain't Afraid, the dynamic twin sisters making waves as trailblazers of Black Muslim excellence in the music industry. This episode features a conversation with the soulful duo, who share their inspiring journey from…
From Roaches to Riches: D'Lai's Inspiring Comedy Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:47
This episode of "The Oasis" features a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with comedian, author, and Muslim convert D' Lai. From humble beginnings in Louisiana to performing on major platforms like HBO's Def Comedy Jam…
She Built a Modest Fashion Empire at 23 | Amanda Hamid [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:36
Meet Amanda Hamid, a 23-year-old entrepreneur who built a modest fashion empire, Soo Royalty, while inspiring thousands through her uplifting social media content. This episode features a conversation with Amanda as she…
Love in Islam: A New Show Helping Muslims Find Soulmates [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:34
This week’s episode of The Oasis features a heartfelt conversation with Bilal and Shaeeda from "90 Day Fiancé," as they share their incredible journey into parenthood and our newest project, "Love in Islam." The couple o…