Meet Michael Isaak

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michael Isaak. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Michael, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

One of the most profound ways I keep my creativity alive is by deeply exploring my Egyptian heritage. Recently, I’ve been immersing myself much more in classical Egyptian music, which I’ve admired since I was a kid but never examined too closely. This journey is not just about appreciation but understanding how these elements can weave into my own music. To complement this, I’ve started taking Arabic classes to improve my command of the language.

I also draw inspiration from a lot of non-music related sources. Over the past year, I’ve read over 50 novels spanning various genres and cultures. Even if I can’t pinpoint the exact influence each book has had on me, I see the difference it has made in my abilities to draw narratives in certain situations and implement them into my songs.

Reading also helps with finding balance and time to recharge. I’ve been making a conscious effort to unplug regularly, allowing more space for reflection and creative thinking.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m Michael Isaak, a singer-songwriter who melds indie pop, folk, and my Egyptian-American heritage into a multicultural musical tapestry. Progressing on a path to music from a very young age, I began putting out music in 2022 and released my debut EP “Forever is a Scary Word” in January 2024.

Since the release, I’ve taken a step back to write my next project, which will be a full-form fusion album. My music is deeply influenced by my Egyptian roots. Growing up, I was immersed in the rich traditions of Coptic mass and Arabic music. My heritage not only informs my sound but also is fundamental to my narrative as an artist.

There’s a lot in store for listeners as I’m hoping to release a few more songs this fall. I’m also hoping to take the next project to the studio at the beginning of next year.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Adaptability: One of the most crucial skills in my musical journey has been the ability to adapt. From transitioning from a neuroscience-focused academic path to fully embracing a music career, adaptability has allowed me to navigate unexpected changes and challenges. This quality helped me shift my mindset from a structured academic environment to a creative, fluid music career. Now that I’ve returned to school, I feel much more confident in my ability to be a student and still develop my career in music. For those just starting out, being open to change and willing to pivot when necessary can be incredibly beneficial. Embrace new opportunities, be flexible in your approach, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles or methods. Take a gap year!

2. Understanding of Cultural Heritage: My Egyptian-American heritage has profoundly shaped my music. For emerging artists, delving into your cultural roots and integrating them into your work can offer a unique and authentic perspective. Explore your background and the communities you belong to, listen to stories that will resonate with you, and find ways to weave them into your creativity.

3. Resilience: Building a career in music requires resilience. There are inevitable setbacks, whether it’s dealing with criticism, facing creative blocks, or navigating the challenges of the industry. My ability to stay resilient and persistent has been crucial in overcoming obstacles and staying motivated. For those early in their journey, embrace setbacks as learning opportunities, maintain a positive mindset, and keep pushing forward even when things get tough.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

One book that has profoundly influenced me is The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. The novel’s closing passage, which reflects on the value of admiring beauty and how such admiration connects us to our humanity and the legacy of those who created and cherished beautiful things, deeply resonates with me.

This insight has shaped my approach to music. Tartt explains that creating and appreciating beauty links us to both the past and future, connecting us to a collective human experience. This perspective motivates me to view my music not just as self-expression, but as part of a larger tapestry of creativity and human connection.

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Image Credits

All photos by Sophie Weil

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