From Lebanon to Morocco, the region’s music scene is chock full of artists blending beats with culture and storytelling. If your Spotify is looking dull and needs a refresher, then keep reading (and listening!) as we put together our picks of regional artists that will switch up your playlist. From rap to electronic to the pop divas, here are the musicians creating contemporary cultural heritage through their soundscapes.
Freek
UAE-based Somali rapper Freek is one to watch. With his new album ANTI HERO, it’s only a matter of time before this rapper hits the mainstream.
Elyanna
Elyanna needs no introduction. This Palestinian-Chilean singer brings incredible vocals, visuals, and charisma in each song. Her stage presence is also remarkable, and she is, deservedly, getting her flowers for it.
Zeyne
If you like your music to be slow and soulful, then you will love Zeyne. This Palestinian-Jordanian singer channels soulful pop, jazz, and R&B with cultural storytelling. Her most notable song, ‘7arrir 3aqlak / Asli Ana’ blends R&B with the traditional rhythm of Levantine dabke.
Zeina
Canadian singer Zeina blends English, Arabic, and French to create witty tracks that are both fun to listen and dance to. Blending pop and R&B, her tracks embody the vibe of dancing in your room as you get ready to go out.
Yasmine Hamdan
The one-half of duo Soapkills, Yasmine Hamdan’s music is a mix of poetry that touches the heart and psychedelic electronic beats that she is known for in the Arab underground music scene.
Bu Kolthoum
Netherlands-based Syrian rapper Bu Kolthoum uses his lyrics and music to embody a vibe that makes you feel nothing short of excited. From his flow to the beats he produces, his tracks are so infectious that we can easily imagine going wild on a live performance.
Gaidaa
For the R&B lovers, Sudanese singer-songwriter Gaidaa is all about soft ballads paired with soulful vocals. Her music is mainly in English, but we’ve heard a hint of Arabic too on her ode to Sudan, ‘Morning Blue’.
MADD
Moroccan rapper MADD is one of the biggest names in the Moroccan rap scene. His last album, Sensus, bends and blends genres that reflect his introspective lyrics. Overall, his work stands as a testament to how music can channel powerful messages
Saint Levant
If you have your toes dipped in Arab music, then Saint Levant is a name you’ve definitely heard. The Palestinian singer-songwriter and rapper has gone viral many times for his musicality and multilingual music that blends his heritage along with the languages.
