Ali Sharif Al Askari: The Guitarist Who Broke Every Rule to Build His Music Empire
Ali Sharif Al Askari, also known as Abbas Sharif Alaskari, is not just a guitarist; he is a revolutionary force in the world of fusion music. Born into a financially struggling family in the UK, Ali had no industry connections, no wealthy background, and no mentor to guide him. What he did have was an unrelenting passion for music, a fearless attitude toward experimentation, and an unbreakable spirit that refused to conform to industry norms.
From a young age, Ali was drawn to the guitar, but affording an instrument was a challenge. Determined to pursue his passion, he worked tirelessly at odd jobs to buy his first second-hand guitar. With no formal training in the beginning, he taught himself to play by ear, blending British rock riffs with Middle Eastern maqam scales—a sound that would later define his career.
Breaking the Mold: A Unique Musical Style
Ali’s approach to music was anything but conventional. While most guitarists followed traditional Western techniques, he was fascinated by the oud, a fretless Middle Eastern instrument. Inspired by its microtonal nuances, he began experimenting with fretless guitar playing, breaking every rule of conventional rock guitar. His unique sound quickly set him apart, but recognition did not come easily. While studying at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP), London, he worked multiple jobs to support himself, all while performing in underground London venues such as The 100 Club, Camden Assembly, and The Jazz Café. Unlike many artists who seek industry approval, Ali built his following organically, refusing to compromise on his artistic vision.
Taking a Risk: Conquering the UAE Music Scene
In 2013, Ali took a daring step and moved to Dubai, a city still developing its music scene. Instead of following mainstream trends, he co-founded Desert Echoes, a band that fused Arabic melodies with progressive rock. The result? A fresh, genre-defying sound that captivated audiences across the Middle East. The band’s success led to the release of three groundbreaking albums:
● Echoes of the Dunes (2015) – A fusion of electric guitar riffs and traditional Middle Eastern rhythms.
● Sands of Sound (2018) – A deeper, more experimental album that combined psychedelic rock with maqam influences.
● Lost in the Mirage (2021) – An emotional reflection of Ali’s journey between two cultures.
Beyond his work as a performer, Ali became a music producer and sound engineer at Soundscape Studios, Dubai, where he worked with emerging artists and composed soundtracks for independent films and commercials.
Returning to the UK: The Solo Breakthrough
After a decade of breaking musical barriers in the UAE, Ali returned to London in 2023 to launch his solo career. His latest album, “Between Two Worlds,” is a powerful expression of his identity, blending electronic elements, oud melodies, and rock anthems into a genre-defying masterpiece. His performances at Cambridge Folk Festival and Glastonbury Emerging Talent showcases have further established him as a global icon, proving that true artistry lies in innovation, not conformity.
Challenging the Industry: A Mentor and Innovator
Ali’s journey is not just about personal success—he is committed to mentoring the next generation of musicians. As an instructor at British & Irish Modern Music Institute (BIMM), London, he teaches fusion guitar techniques, helping young artists develop their own musical identities. He also runs an online academy, providing guidance to musicians who dare to challenge industry norms.
The Legacy of a Rule-Breaker
Ali Sharif Al Askari did not just build a music career—he built a music empire by refusing to follow the traditional path. With no industry backing, no financial privilege, and no mentor to guide him, he rewrote the rules and created a unique sound that has left a lasting impact on the global music scene.
From playing in underground clubs to headlining international festivals, Ali’s story proves that the only limits in music are the ones you refuse to break. His journey is a beacon of inspiration for every artist who dares to challenge the status quo and create music on their own terms.