Master oud player Rahim AlHaj joins KGNU to reflect on his lifelong mission to use music as a bridge between cultures. He discusses his early days in the U.S., his Grammy-nominated collaboration Ancient Sounds with Amjad Ali Khan, and the power of live performance to create genuine human connection. Rahim also shares the stories behind his cross-cultural projects—including the politically bold Axis of Evil ensemble—and the emotional origins of pieces like The Searching and Dancing Planet. Speaking with deep sincerity about war, displacement, creativity, and empathy, Rahim reminds listeners that music can unite us across borders and experiences. He will perform in Denver with Serena Safadi as part of his One Sky project. (11/12/2025)