New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani Reveals He Is a Fan of Pakistani Rapper Shamoon Ismail

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has revealed that he has been listening to the music of Pakistani singer and rapper Shamoon Ismail for several years, highlighting his appreciation for South Asian music and culture.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Mamdani was asked about the artists currently featured on his playlist. He said he has been enjoying music by Uganda’s legendary duo Radio & Weasel, while also mentioning that Pakistani rapper Shamoon Ismail has remained one of his favorite artists for years. He added that when he is in a reflective mood, he also listens to American singer-songwriter Kacey Musgraves.

Born to a Ugandan father and an Indian-origin mother, Mamdani was raised in New York City and has often spoken about his multicultural background. His diverse musical preferences reflect his connection to different cultures, including South Asia.

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Although Mamdani did not specify which of Shamoon Ismail’s songs he enjoys the most, his praise has drawn attention to the growing international recognition of Pakistani music. Shamoon Ismail has gained a strong following among young listeners with popular tracks such as “Used To It” and “Volume,” both of which have attracted millions of streams across digital platforms.

This is not the first time Mamdani has expressed admiration for South Asian music. His public appreciation for artists from the region has previously generated discussion on social media.

Fans have welcomed his comments, viewing them as another sign that Pakistani musicians are increasingly earning recognition beyond national borders and reaching audiences around the world.