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Few artists manage to convey feelings and tell stories quite like Toronto-based artist, poet, activist and filmmaker Mustafa Ahmed. Capturing an authenticity and honesty that truly resonates with you and speaks to your soul, Mustafa’s compositions thus far have set him apart as one of the most existing musicians and storytellers around. Towards the end of last year, Mustafa delivered a stunning performance of latest single ‘Air Forces’ (produced by Frank Dukes, Jamie xx and Simon Hessman) as part of his A COLORS SHOW.

Today, the rising artist unveils an equally arresting and tender performance of debut single ‘Stay Alive’ which dropped almost exactly a year ago. The minimal guitar-laden production courtesy of Frank Dukes and James Blake sets the tone for Mustafa’s delicate tones and messages of resilience, empowerment and hope seep through to your soul. Whilst you await Mustafa’s highlight-anticipated debut studio album (which is set to drop later this year), check out his stunning performance of ‘Stay Alive’ above.

With just a handful of singles under his belt, rising Toronto-based poet Mustafa has shown why he’s one to watch in the coming years. Having originally gained traction as Mustafa the Poet for ‘Remember Me’, a short film created in tribute to the late Smoke Dawg, Mustafa released his debut single ‘Stay Alive’ (produced by Frank Dukes and James Blake) in March 2020. The deeply emotional single was followed up this past summer with ‘Come Back’, another stunning collaboration with Blake.

As part of his A COLORS SHOW, Mustafa shares a soothing stripped-back rendition of ‘Air Forces’, his latest single which features production from Frank Dukes and Jamie xx. Soundtracked by delicate guitar chords and samples of Sudanese tribal chants, Mustafa creates an entirely intimate and captivating atmosphere with his soft vocals as he sings “Don’t crease your Air Forces/ Just stay inside tonight/ You know what’s happening outside” in the opening verse. Watch Mustafa’s performance of ‘Air Forces’ above, it’s two-and-a-half minutes of pure excellence.