In developing the music for Prime Video's animated series "#1 Happy Family USA," Ramy Youssef embarked on a journey inspired by Middle Eastern sounds and personal experiences. The sitcom, co-created with Pam Brady, follows a Muslim family in New Jersey during the aftermath of September 11, 2001. As Youssef lent his voice to multiple characters, he also found himself creating original music that resonates deeply with the show’s themes. This exploration led to tracks like "Money for the Meat," which captures the struggles and vulnerabilities of the main character Hussein.
The process involved collaboration with composer Moez Dawad and drew heavily from Youssef’s upbringing in Queens, New York. Personal memories of halal carts and urban life influenced both the lyrics and melodies, blending authenticity with humor. Meanwhile, finding the right tone for young Rumi was equally significant, relying on childhood recordings provided by Youssef’s sister, Reem. Together, these elements crafted an auditory landscape that mirrors the complexities of identity and belonging.
Music as a Reflection of Cultural Struggles
Ramy Youssef's approach to integrating music into "#1 Happy Family USA" stemmed from his desire to authentically portray the challenges faced by immigrant communities. By channeling emotions through songs such as "Money for the Meat," Youssef highlights the anxieties and aspirations tied to running a halal food cart. These musical pieces not only underscore the daily battles but also reveal hidden layers of vulnerability within characters like Hussein.
This method of storytelling uses melody and rhythm to connect audiences to the characters' inner worlds. Drawing upon personal observations of relatives and friends, Youssef crafts lyrics that reflect universal yet specific struggles—like attracting customers while grappling with societal pressures post-9/11. Each note and chord progression carries traces of real-life experiences, ensuring the music remains grounded and relatable. Collaborating closely with composer Moez Dawad allowed Youssef to refine these ideas further, ultimately shaping a soundtrack that complements the narrative seamlessly.
Finding Authentic Voices Through Personal History
Beyond composing music, Youssef focused on delivering genuine performances for each character, especially Rumi. To achieve this authenticity, he turned to unexpected sources: old home videos recorded during his youth. Thanks to his sister Reem's initiative, Youssef revisited his own past, discovering a unique vocal quality reminiscent of his younger self. This rediscovery informed Rumi's distinctive whispery voice, adding depth and credibility to the teenage protagonist.
The search for authentic expression extended beyond just sound; it delved into the essence of what makes individuals feel seen and heard amidst cultural shifts. For instance, the opening theme "Hello Neighbors" encapsulates the tension between asserting one's presence and adapting to external expectations. Youssef and Dawad iterated extensively on this piece, experimenting with improvisation until they captured the perfect balance between optimism and resilience. Their shared history and creative synergy ensured every track contributed meaningfully to the overarching story of acceptance and identity. Through this meticulous attention to detail, the music becomes more than background—it becomes integral to understanding the characters' journeys.