Basra, Iraq - In the heart of Iraq’s third-largest city of Basra, ThreeAin, a band previously unknown, has introduced Western music to its community, traditionally dominated by local folk music and singing. Despite the challenges, the young musicians have successfully formed the first rock band in the southern Iraqi city.

Lost in the narrow Old Basra streets at 8pm, I was drawn to the sound of music. The rhythmic pulse led me to the space where the band was practicing.

Hassan Uday, the 20-year-old band’s frontman, lead vocalist, guitarists and songwriter of the band, welcomed me with a warm smile and a steaming cup of traditional Iraqi tea. As I sat, surrounded by musical instruments, Uday shared his passion for music, from his early days of dreaming to his ambitious vision for the future.

“The band’s name symbolizes the collective vision of its three members (now four),” he said. The Arabic word Ain means eye, representing the band’s shared dream and forward-looking perspective.

ThreeAin band members on stage practicing rock music on stage to prepare for an upcoming event in Basra. Photo: Azhar Al-Rubaie

ThreeAin formed in 2021. Initially, members practiced at home or in other public spaces, but faced difficulties due to family disapproval of loud music and societal stigma associated with public musical performances.

“The band went through a difficult period that forced us to stop practicing,” Uday noted, “However, we quickly returned to the world of music, the world where we found ourselves.”

“Music was, and still is, more than just a hobby for us; through it, we deliver our message, and try to leave a mark on society,” he added.

“I will continue to create music and produce albums until my last day. We still aspire to achieve global recognition.”

The frontman said that young people love the band’s music, and that they have a major following within Gen Z.

“Gen Z has a new taste for music.”

Their first public live music performance was in 2023 at a secondhand clothing fashion show in Basra. This marked the first step in their journey to fame among the people of Basra and Iraq.

Uday’s strong leadership was crucial in keeping the ThreeAin band afloat during its early, challenging days. Despite member turnover caused by financial constraints and logistical difficulties like securing instruments and rehearsal spaces, his determination and ability to involve ambitious new members, including Mujtaba and Nazar later in 2024, ensured the band’s survival.

The band backstage at their first live performance during the first Basra Fashion Show for Secondhand Clothes, held in January 2023 in Basra. Photo: Azhar Al-Rubaie

“We turned to music to express ourselves,” Uday said. “We blend Western genres like rock, blues, and psychedelic rock with Arabic words, creating a unique sound that resonates with a new generation of Iraqi listeners.”

Despite the lack of support from official or cultural institutions, the band self-funds their operations, including a monthly rent of 150,000 Iraqi dinar (roughly 115 USD). Their old place provides the ideal environment for their musical explorations.

Yassin, 21, a drummer and producer in the band shared his views.

“Before joining the band, I would often lose myself in the rhythm of my drums, playing alone in my room. But I knew that true music was born from collaboration.”

“Joining the band was a must-step for myself. I found my musical family, and together, we have been pushing the boundaries of sound. With every beat, I have grown as a musician and as an individual” he added.

“We are not just making noise; we are crafting a legacy,” said the drummer.

With every moment the group members spend on stage, they share their dream with their audience, drawing inspiration and strength from their support to continue their path to their desired future.

“Our ambition is to achieve fame and widespread recognition throughout Iraq, the Arab region, and the globe. The small dream we started with has grown day by day, fueled by our determination and love for music,” said Mujtaba, 21-year-old guitarist and backing vocalist at ThreeAin.

“My friend Nazar, who is a pianist and bassist in the band, and I caught wind of the band and reached out to Hassan Uday. We phoned him and told him that we have the desire to join the band, he was more than happy to have us on board.” Mujtaba added.

The ThreeAin band members, sharing knowledge about music while seated on a sofa in their antique location in Old Basra. Right down (Mujtaba), left down (Nazar), up left (Hassan Uday) and their friend on the up right. Photo: Azhar Al-Rubaie

Influenced by the likes of Pink Floyd, The Doors, Fleetwood Mac, Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, and The Beatles, Mujtaba said that their dream is for one day to stand alongside these musical giants.

“We are a team now, working together to make our dreams a reality. The fuel that powers us to keep going even with challenges is that we all have dreams," he concluded.