Issam Freiha, also known as icekream, is a well-known Emirati music producer. Born and raised in Paris, France, Issam started his journey in the music industry at a young age, becoming a DJ at just 13 years old. He later committed himself fully to his musical aspirations and launched a unique Trap music initiative on Soundcloud. His distinctive sound quickly gained international recognition, leading to collaborations with underground pioneers and mainstream icons such as Wyclef and Diplo.
Recently, icekream partnered with Cuban artist El Larra to release his debut album, ‘Santa Cruz’, which consists of 10 tracks blending various genres. In a conversation with Khaleej Times, the producer discusses his journey, the music scene in the UAE, and his thoughts on the future of music production with the influence of AI.
Despite facing initial challenges, especially from his Emirati father who viewed music as a hobby rather than a viable career, Issam followed his passion and made a name for himself in the music industry. Moving to Dubai provided him with opportunities to hone his skills and explore diverse musical influences, blending Western and Middle Eastern sensibilities in his work.
As the music industry evolves with the rise of social media platforms like SoundCloud, Apple Music, Spotify, Instagram, and TikTok, icekream reflects on the shift towards creating music for viral success. While many artists focus on short, catchy tunes designed to capture attention online, he remains committed to producing timeless music that reflects genuine emotions and experiences.
Looking ahead to his debut album, Issam aims to continue creating music that transcends viral trends and showcases his diverse influences. He expresses concerns about AI-generated music impacting artistic authenticity in the future, as advanced technology may blur the lines between human-produced and AI-generated music, ultimately putting pressure on artists.
Passionate about nurturing the music scene in the UAE, icekream sees vast potential for growth and innovation in the industry. Events like Sole DXB and BRED in Abu Dhabi play a crucial role in showcasing local talent and connecting artists with global audiences, contributing to the UAE’s emergence as a cultural hub in the Middle East. The artiste advocates for stronger copyright laws and intellectual property protections to support and safeguard the rights of artists in the region.