Toronto-based. Culture writer and researcher with a focus on music, movement, tradition, and memory — when they coincide, especially. Contact: a.binshikhan at gmail dot com.
The remarkable sameness of The Weeknd
On his latest album, Abel Tesfaye sparks nostalgia while still managing to sound weird and futuristic.
Hip-Hop Evolution
Worked as a story and interview researcher/writer on seasons 2-4 of the Peabody- and Emmy Award-winning Netflix documentary series.
Music Makes You Open Up with TOBi
Up-and-coming artist talks inspiration and process with Amani Bin Shikhan.
Raahiem’s hard fought return
After two years of recalibration, the budding Bramptonian singer is ready to re-introduce himself.
Music Makes You Open Up with NAO
UK R&B singer NAO opens up about the first song she ever wrote and what influenced her latest album with Amani Bin Shikhan.
Life Balms — Vol. 6: Akwaeke Emezi on the Process of Creating the Work
Interview with write and novelist Akwaeke Emezi on writing, visibility, and process for my Healthline series, Life Balms.
The crucial 15 year legacy of Montreal improv collective, Kalmunity
How a collective’s weekly open mic events have become a lifeline for Montreal’s creative Black community.
On a wave again: Meet some of Toronto's newest stars
In a city that’s been on a steady international climb for years, artistry is morphing and blooming. We shine a light on the new 'new' wave of MCs, producers and songwriters threatening the charts.
Teyana Taylor's True Potential Shines on Stage
It is consensus that the G.O.O.D. Music-signee deserves more, but what Taylor does with what she has is truly something worthy of marvel.
The Contemplation Behind the Random Acts
Interview with two of the masterminds behind 'Random Acts of Flyness' — creator Terence Nance and writer-director Naima Ramos-Chapman.
Toronto’s hip-hop building blocks: An oral history with DJ Grumps
As the city’s musical reputation soars internationally, DJ, curator and scholar Dr. Mark V. Campbell reminds us of the traditions that have shaped Toronto's sound, look and identity.
'I don't feel the same': Drake's Summer's Over Interlude and a melancholic end to the season
The first installation in CBC Art's Sounds Like Summer series. On a changing relationship to a changing city, end-of-summer reprieve, and "Summer's Over Interlude."
Life Balms — Vol. 5: Diane Exavier and What It Means to Care
Interview with poet/essayist/theatermaker/educator Diane Exavier about “care” — its practice, ethics, utility, etcetera — for my Healthline series, Life Balms.
On sound and freedom
Contribution to a symposium focused on "soundtracks." In it, the essay explores gentrification, sonic memory, and a changing Toronto.