‘I wanted to be different’

Hailing from the family of the legendary Sabri Brothers, Moin Sabri, a hairstylist by profession, couldn’t distance himself from the world of music. Let’s hear from him about his latest song, Judaai.

What was your childhood like?

My family is full of musicians. Right from my grandfather to my father and my uncles. Sabri Brothers are famous all over the world. My childhood was different as I started working at an early age.

Why did you choose hairstyling?

I always wanted to do something different. My family thought I would get into singing or play some instrument. But I had a different mind-set, which led me to hairstyling.

Who is your inspiration?

Aalim Hakim. Back then, in my hometown in UP, there was no salon culture and hairstyling was quite unexplored. I saw a picture of Hakim with Salman Khan and that picture stayed on my mind.

Tell us about your journey?

The journey has been a long one from Uttar Pradesh to the City of Dreams, Mumbai. It was not easy, but somehow I had faith in myself. My family background also helped me strengthen my resolve. I always felt I should not let down my family. I did a professional hairstyling course from a reputed company in Chandigarh.

When did you decide to try out music?

I used to hum but hesitated to sing in front of my family members as they are very good singers. People used to praise me whenever I sang. That encouraged me.

Are you self-taught or have you trained under someone?

Initially I didn’t have any formal training. After singing my first song for Revolver Rani, I realised that one has to know the minor details of music. Then I got in touch with Sanjeev Vidyarthi, who is a well-known teacher in the industry. I am still learning.

Who inspires you in music?

My uncle Iqbal Afzal Sabri and dad Dilshad Sabri. Apart from them Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Sukhvinder Singh, Master Salim, Javed Ali, AR Rahman and many others have inspired me.