Sons of Yusuf is a Kuwaiti duo composed of brothers Ya'koob and Abdul Rahman Al-Refaie who brought us the wonderful "Still Got a Lot to Go". We sat down with them to hear more about their story, how they've come to be the talented musicians they are today, and the secrets to their success. Bayt.com: What’s your story? How did you start? Sons of Yusuf: It all started when we were young. After the Gulf War, we moved to California, and we traveled to many places across the world at a very young age. The move and the traveling enabled us to learn about humanity's different cultures and traditions, and we realized how important it is to share our own culture and traditions. Media gives a very wrong image to the world as well, especially about Islam and the Middle East. Both these things inspired us to make the music we make today, and to in turn inspire others through poetry, art, and music. Bayt.com: That really is very inspiring! Is your music your profession? Do you do anything else on the side? Sons of Yusuf: We are students of the Islamic faith firstly. But yes, music is our profession. We produce music, film, documentaries, and music videos. We also do a whole load of other things related to our music, including editing, mixing, mastering, marketing, and design (merchandise and digital artwork). We also manage our production company, The Base Productions. (Image from Sons of Yusuf's Instagram page) Bayt.com: Talk about multi-talented. The path to such a diverse skillset must have been full of challenges and hard work. What are your personal values when it comes to doing such hard work? Sons of Yusuf: Work with pure intentions, for a real purpose. Bayt.com: Simple and beautiful. Tell us something surprising that has to do with your career journey. Sons of Yusuf: People are often surprised when they find out we are fully independent artists, and that we've done everything without any record label. We've been blessed to be among the pioneers of this accomplishment. Insha'Allah we can inspire other artists and the youth, especially in the Middle East, and make the independent artist movement grow worldwide. Bayt.com: You know what they say... where there is a will, there is a way. Speaking of the Middle East, what’s your #1 piece of advice to professionals in the region? Sons of Yusuf: Clear your heart, humble yourself as much as possible. Always think of how you can help others benefit. Don't rely on any company or investment to make your work grow, invest in yourself and good things will come. Most importantly, have pure intentions, and don't give up on your craft. Surround yourself with positive energy at all times and always be appreciative for what you have and what's around you. Bayt.com: Good things come indeed to those who work hard. What would you say to people to encourage them to take control of their own story? Sons of Yusuf: Do your own thing. Get inspired, but create your own lane. Everyone is blessed in their own way, and everybody is gifted. You never know what you're capable of if you don't try. Bayt.com: Love that! It's very much in line with our theme this year, which is "Write your own story". We have one more question: What did you enjoy most when creating "Still Got a Lot?"? Sons of Yusuf: The positive energy. And of course, working with everyone who was involved. It was a lot of fun, Alhamdulilah. -- Thank you Ya'koob and AbdulRahman for such an inspiring interview! If you're interested in learning more about the wonderful duo behind Sons of Yusuf, check out their profiles on Bayt.com: Ya'koob Al-Refaie's profile Abdul Rahman Al-Refaie's Profile
