Exclusive: Maldivian Band SkyRock on New Single and Success

The Maldivian band SkyRock formed in 2017. The current lineup has been together for the last couple of years and consists of Insha on vocals, Faffu on vocals and rhythm guitar, Husen on keyboard, Inan on bass guitar, Faizan on drums and Zayaan as the lead guitarist.

The band’s name was conceived on a beautiful starry evening while ordering dinner at Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences. A menu item, rocket salad, caught a band member’s attention. The band’s name, SkyRock, was born out of the glistening night sky and a zesty arugula salad. The band has since found deeper meaning in the name to mean the sky, the earth and the space in between.

SkyRock is currently playing regularly at One & Only Reethi Rah. The band also performs at private events and corporate functions at many resorts, including Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi and Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island.

Featured Image: SkyRock played the 2022 festive season at Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island

In resorts, SkyRock tends to play nostalgic old school hits. The band prepares the set list depending on the type of guest a resort attracts. During shows, the set list is fluid and responsive to the crowd’s mood and reaction. SkyRock’s original music is progressive fusion rock, with Maldivian influences. This unique style is exemplified in the band’s popular hit, Samugaa that fuses ancient Dhivehi language with modern elements.

To celebrate International Women’s Day 2023, SkyRock released a new single, Heyvallaa Thayyaaru. The single is a teaser to the album that will be released later this year. The song paints an empowering message about determination in the face of hardship. Skyrock wishes to celebrate women who break through glass ceilings. The band hopes that after hearing the song, listeners feel ready to take on any challenge. Listen to the single on streaming platforms. Watch the music video on YouTube.

SkyRock attributes their success to the band’s chemistry. While on stage, the band feeds off of each other’s energy to give the best performance. Drummer Faizan elaborates, “Any band can come and play the same songs, but the audience will remember the energy the band is delivering. No one will remember how we played the songs, but the feeling of the performance makes for a memorable night.”

Featured Image: Lead singer Insha and guitarist Zayaan 

When asked what is the biggest misconception about resort musicians, Faizan remarked that in Maldives resort musicians are often undervalued. Many outside the music community don’t consider it a serious profession. This sentiment may be influenced by the lack of formal regulations or protections for resort musicians. In many countries, to busk or perform, one must obtain a license. Formal regulations could help maintain the quality of musicians to ensure they are prepared, professional and committed.

Lead singer Insha adds that many have the misconception that it is an easy profession. Not only does it take talent, but the logistics can be a headache. No matter the weather, the band must travel by air or sea to give a remarkable performance.

When asked if the band has any advice for aspiring professional musicians, Insha recommended treating music like a career and not a hobby. Discipline is crucial for success. When music is a hobby, you will work on it in spontaneous bursts of energy. SkyRock attributes dedication and discipline to the band’s success. The band recommends scheduling and being on time to regular practices.

Faizan recommends challenging yourself to be better than you were yesterday, but to not compete against others. He elaborates, “We often confuse music with sport. Music is an art. We shouldn’t compete with but appreciate and learn from others.”