Abdul Mistykmelodie

Abdoul Ahad Souleyane Sow, professionally known as Abdul (singer-rapper) and Mystik Melodie (beatmaker), was born on July 16, 1989, in Dakar, Senegal. Growing up in the vibrant Golf Sud district of Guédiawaye, he was immersed in music from a young age, inspired by the hip-hop sounds his older brother played.

A self-taught musician, Abdul began composing at age 14, mastering software like Fruity Loops, Reason, and Ableton to bring his musical ideas to life. He co-founded the band Thirtyfive and the Storm Rain Thunder, where he honed his skills as a composer and leader before embarking on a solo career in 2016 to fully explore his artistic identity.

Abdul’s music blends hip-hop, jazz, traditional Senegalese rhythms, and other genres, resulting in a distinctive sound that is both contemporary and rooted in African culture. As a composer, he has collaborated with artists such as Maybe on the D.Y.Y Dof Yegul Yoon project and Dollarmentary in Bushwick, expanding his international reach and musical versatility.

Influenced by legends like Souleymane Faye, Bob Marley, Nina Simone, Cheikh Lo, Neville Brothers, The Roots, Boubacar Traoré, Ali Farka Touré, Salif Keita, and Baba Maal, Abdul draws on these diverse sounds and messages to create music that celebrates African culture, unity, and artistic exploration.

In 2015, Abdul took a hiatus following the death of his mother, a period of reflection and healing that strengthened his artistic vision. Since returning, he has continued to captivate audiences with energetic performances and original compositions, carving out a unique space in both Senegalese and international music.