Rocking Dreams: Naser Mestarihi's Journey from Doha to Guns N' Roses
Naser Mestarihi, a rock musician, fulfilled his dream of performing rock music with his band Winterburn as the opening act for Guns N’ Roses in Bahrain. The band also played in Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone for Mestarihi. Growing up in Doha, his interest in music was sparked by The Beatles, but it was Guns N' Roses that truly captivated him and inspired him to pursue a career in music.
Opening for Guns N' Roses was a surreal experience for Mestarihi, who described it as a dream come true. His passion for music was ignited when he first heard the album "Appetite for Destruction," which solidified his desire to become a musician. Meeting Guns N' Roses founding member Duff McKagan backstage before the concert was a memorable moment for Mestarihi, who was energized by the encounter and determined to deliver an outstanding performance.
Despite facing challenges in finding collaborators and support for rock music in Dubai, Mestarihi persevered and continued to pursue his musical aspirations. He became the first Arab musician endorsed by Gibson guitars and completed his album "Ivory Towers" in 2021 by playing every instrument himself. Drawing inspiration from artists like Lenny Kravitz and Prince, Mestarihi took on the role of producer, funder, and multi-instrumentalist to bring his vision to life.
While the opportunity to perform with Guns N' Roses was a highlight of his career, Mestarihi faced mixed reactions from former band members who were not all supportive of his success. Moving to Saudi Arabia provided Mestarihi with a platform to grow his fan base and connect with audiences who appreciate original music. He found the Saudi audience to be receptive and culturally engaged, creating a promising environment for rock music enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Naser Mestarihi's journey as a rock musician has been marked by determination, perseverance, and a deep passion for music. From his early fascination with Guns N' Roses to the thrill of opening for the band, Mestarihi's dedication to his craft has propelled him forward despite challenges and setbacks. His ability to overcome obstacles and stay true to his musical vision reflects his unwavering commitment to his art and his desire to connect with audiences through his music.