We had the good fortune of connecting with Hisham Dahud (aka Rizik) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hisham, what role has risk played in your life or career?
When you possess crystal-clear vision, what may seem like a risk to others transforms into a necessary move. To me, risk isn’t just a blind leap into the unknown—it’s a calculated step toward something you can clearly see, even if no one else can. The fear doesn’t go away; it sits there, looming, but becomes something you learn to overcome or at the very least manage, because you believe so deeply in the path you’ve envisioned for yourself.

In my life and career, risk has been a compass, often pointing toward the things that scared me the most. Ironically, the fear became a signal that I was heading in the right direction, not a deterrent. Whether it was stepping away from behind-the-scenes industry work to pursue my own music as Rizik or launching ArtistPro to help other artists build their visions, the biggest leaps came with the heaviest doubts. But each time, the vision was the anchor. It made taking risks feel less like a gamble and more like a step toward becoming who I truly wanted to be. That clarity and self-belief turn the impossible into something within reach. So, I’ve learned to run toward what scares me most, knowing that on the other side of fear lies transformation.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a journey of exposing human fragility and exploring the raw, unfiltered emotions that make us who we are. As RIZIK, I try to create deeply introspective music that reveals the beauty and vulnerability of the human experience, often weaving together themes of cosmic wonder, self-discovery, and the delicate balance of our existence. I suppose Wwat sets me apart is not only the intention behind my music but also the way it is delivered—I create it all live, with no safety net. Every performance is a raw expression, a high-wire act where every note carries risk and potential, inviting listeners into a space of shared vulnerability and genuine connection.

Getting to where I am today has been a test of resilience and courage. I transitioned from a career behind the scenes in the music industry to standing in the spotlight myself—a move driven by a vision too strong to ignore and a desire to embody the authenticity I encourage others to pursue. It hasn’t been easy; I’ve faced fear, doubt, and the weight of stepping into the unknown. But each challenge became an opportunity to grow, to break free from the confines of comfort, and to create something meaningful.

Alongside my personal artistic journey, I founded ArtistPro, an educational platform that guides others in uncovering their stories, honing their craft, and finding their voice. I believe that being a professional artist is a form of discipline and that vulnerability and authenticity are among our greatest strengths.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a huge foodie, lover of the outdoors, and am blessed enough to have quite a strong community around me. So of my best friend were visiting, I’d create a week filled with unforgettable moments centered around high-quality food, outdoor exploration, and the vibrant Southern California lifestyle that I cherish. We’d indulge in some of LA’s best culinary experiences—places where pride and artistry are evident in every dish. We’d balance this with outdoor adventures, exploring iconic hiking trails, stunning beaches, and hidden gems that showcase the beauty of Los Angeles and beyond. The itinerary would extend beyond LA to include Orange County, San Diego, and even Ojai, offering a broader view of Southern California’s diverse charm. Most importantly, I’d bring them into my circle, connecting with my community and friends to show the heart and soul of what makes this place feel like home.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My deepest gratitude goes to Gian Fiero, my professor of music industry career planning at San Francisco State. Gian was the first person to truly see me for who I was and, more importantly, for who I could become. He had an incredible ability to identify strengths and potential I couldn’t see in myself at the time. His guidance was transformative; he provided clarity about the industry I was so eager to join and challenged me to grow in areas that would become the foundation of my strengths.

What made Gian’s mentorship even more special was the connection we shared beyond the classroom—we bonded over similar upbringings and a shared love of film. He’s a one-of-a-kind person whose influence has resonated deeply in my life. In many ways, Gian’s impact shaped my path, and I’ve carried his ethos with me as I strive to provide the same kind of transformative guidance and encouragement to others. Fulfilling my own dreams while helping others fulfill theirs is a direct reflection of what he taught me. I owe him a great deal of credit for the person and professional I am today.

Website: https://theartistpro.com

Instagram: hishamdahud

Linkedin: hishamdahud

Twitter: hishamdahud

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1RPAAHsStLojK33L7zhgzl?si=vLCP-Og7QtC5uDM7EJEUgw

Image Credits
Laith Majali

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.