Raef

Raef Haggag, known professionally as Raef, is an Egyptian-American singer-songwriter whose music blends faith-inspired themes with contemporary folk-rock sounds. Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in Maryland, Raef developed a passion for music during his college years at the University of Maryland, where he studied computer science and sang tenor in an a cappella group.

After working briefly as a software engineer, Raef transitioned to teaching high school computer programming in Montgomery County, Maryland. His experiences in education and community engagement shaped his songwriting, leading him to perform at local venues and eventually join the Poetic Vision Tour—a collective of Muslim artists promoting cultural renewal through music and poetry.

In 2014, Raef signed with Awakening Records and released his debut album, The Path, which received acclaim for its introspective lyrics and fusion of Western and Eastern musical elements. His follow-up album, Mercy, showcased a broader musical range, incorporating rock and country influences.

Raef's music has resonated with global audiences, particularly in Indonesia, where he hosted the Ramadan television series The Journey of a Backpacker, exploring Islamic heritage sites throughout the country. He has been recognized with a Platinum Award for record sales in Indonesia.

In addition to his albums, Raef has produced impactful music videos such as "Home" and "Dear America," which address themes of immigration, identity, and social justice. His work continues to inspire audiences around the world through music that bridges cultural divides and speaks to universal human experiences.