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We sit down with Ahmed Alammary (otherwise known as DJ Baloo), the Chief Creative Officer of MDLBeast and a leading music figure and thinker in the region. We discuss the origins of MDLBeast and its goals for transforming the music industry in Saudi Arabia and the broader region. MDLBeast was born from a brief for a three-day music festival in 2019. Since then, it has evolved into a multi-layered music brand with an ethos centered on amplifying music culture across various platforms, including events, venues, record labels, radio channels, and music conferences. Given that Saudi Arabia was previously considered a "music desert" with no industry, music education, rights, or dedicated venues, the organization's involvement is seen as having incubated so much value and accelerating the development of a music industry. The conversation also touches on the dramatic shift in how the international community views Saudi music, moving from initial backlash to a point where artists and management companies are now actively seeking collaboration. This change has fostered a significant regional conversation and is credited with fading stereotypes, with Arabs starting to look at each other differently.   0:00 When Restrictions Fuel Creativity: MDLBeast's Genesis 3:50 The Chief Creative Officer’s Role in Shaping Vision 6:03 Saudi Arabia as a "Music Desert" and the Lack of Infrastructure 10:09 The Building Blocks of a Thriving Music Industry 15:03 The Core Difference Between XP and Soundstorm 18:42 Overcoming Domestic (and International) Backlash 20:35 Creating a Regional "Musical Glue" 22:50 The History of the Underground Saudi Music Scene 27:37 The Economic and Professional Focus of the New Industry 30:30 Artistry and Local Palettes: The Role of Record Labels 33:25 Identifying a Unique "Saudi Sound" 35:35 Beyond Electronic Music: Hip-Hop, Indie, and Heavy Metal 37:45 The 10-Year Vision: Saudi As a Music Destination 40:30 Culture Building Over Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) 46:37 Navigating Censorship Through Creativity 51:38 Potholes to Avoid: The Double-Edged Sword of Ambition   Ahmed Alammary aka AlBaloo is the Label Head and DJ at Gabu Records and Chief Creative Officer of MDLBeast, and a leading music figures and thinkers in Saudi Arabia.  Connect with Baloo 👉 https://instagram.com/a_baloo   Hosted by Mikey Muhanna 👉  https://instagram.com/mikey_mu FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oud player, singer and musician Huda Asfour takes the stage on Habibi Festival's fifth and last night of 2025, performing new tracks she wrote during the genocidal campaign on Gaza, and a track called "From the River to the Sea" which she Wrote as a response to the May 18, 2021 strike in Palestine. The Mohamed Abozekry Sextet also take the stage for a second night this festival.   0:00:00 Huda Asfour Takes the Stage With Her Oud 0:09:48 Asfour Introduces a New Track  0:14:10 Asfour Performs More Tracks From She Wrote During the Genocidal Campaign on Gaza 0:31:37 Asfour Performs a Track She Write "From the River to the Sea" As a Response to the May 18, 2021 Strike in Palestine 0:36:19 The Mohamed Abozekry Sextet Takes the Stage for a Second Night This Festival With New Track "Teach Me" 0:49:47 Mohamed Abozekry Celebrates The Sextet's Last Show in Their US Tour and Introduces the Musicians on Stage 0:51:00 The Mohamed Abozekry Sextet Perform Another New Track: "Still Longing" 0:59:08 More Tracks From the Sextet 1:08:22 "Roh El Fouad" Track from the Latest Album With the Same Name 1:23:38 Performance Continues 2:12:00 afikra Quartertones Takes the Stage for a Conversation with Huda Asfour   Huda Asfour is a Palestinian oud and qanun player, composer, educator, social entrepreneur, and engineer. Born into a musical family, she began her formal musical training at 13, and later studied at the National Conservatory of Music in Gaza and the Edward Said Music Conservatory in Ramallah, where she was mentored. Connect with Huda Asfour 👉 https://instagram.com/hudasmusic Mohamed Abozekry is a Franco-Egyptian musician who entered the Arabic Oud House in Cairo at a very early age and received his teaching from Naseer Shamma. At the age of fifteen, he became the youngest professor of Oud in the Arab world. He formed several groups, including the Mohamed Abozekry Sextet and received the first prize at the international Oud competition in Damascus in 2009. In 2010 he formed the quartet Heejaz which also includes Guillaume Hogan (guitar), Anne Laure Bourget (percussion) and Hugo Reydet (double bass).  Connect with  Mohamed Abozekry 👉 https://instagram.com/m.abozekry   Hosted by Hiba Al-Ashtal FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the fourth night of Habibi Festival 2025, Sudanese artist Mai Elgizouli takes the stage with a dynamic, deeply emotional first "serious" show in New York performing a set of acoustic songs that explore themes of sadness, power, and hope, including a deeply personal tribute to her late brother and the strong women of Sudan. She follows with a nuanced and candid conversation with afikra Quarertones, joined by celebrated Sudanese musician Alsarah. They discuss their long-standing friendship and artistic collaboration and delve into May’s journey from visual artist to musician, the unexpected amount of work required for a professional set, and the immense privilege of having a family that provides a space for emotional and artistic expression in a place like Sudan. They also reflect on how being in New York and witnessing the current war has impacted Mai’s work, concluding with a powerful message for the audience: to simply feel their feelings. Palestinian musician Rasha Nahas also takes the stage for a second night in this year's festival.   0:00 Mai Elgizouli Performs a Tribute to Her Brother: "Ba'eed 'an Al Ahzan" (Far From Sorrows) 4:40 Performing "Ramadi" (Gray) 10:47 Mai Introduces Her Band & Performs "Al Gawiyya": a Song for Strong Women & the Sudanese Revolution 17:20 Performing "Bi Darbi Ma Bamshi" (Never Down That Path Again)  23:34 Performing "Shabah" (Ghost) 29:32 Performing "Al Furaq": the First Song She Wrote 37:06 Rasha Nahas Takes the Stage for a Second Night 43:57 Rasha Nahas Introduces the Band & Performs "Desert" From Her First Album 50:09 Rasha Nahas Performs "The Clown" 56:46 Rasha Nahas Performs "Nbeed" (Wine) 1:02:24 Rasha Nahas Performs an Unreleased New Song "Khalas" From an Album Which Will be Out Next Year 1:07:13 Rasha Nahas Performs Her Latest Single "Ghanneeli" (A Song Written During the Genocide in Gaza) 1:14:00 Rasha Nahas Performs Another Unreleased Song: "Once Upon a Time in Palestine" 1:24:20 afikra Quartertones Invites Mai Elgizouli and Special Guest Alsarah on Stage 1:26:05 Alsarah’s Obsession and Mai’s Artistic Mastery 1:29:13 Mai’s First "Serious Show" in New York 1:30:58 Family Support & Surviving Trauma in Sudan 1:33:36 Art, Critique & Dealing With War While in New York 1:37:37 The Message: Feel Your Feelings   Mai Elgizouli is an award-winning film director and multidisciplinary artist born and raised in Omdurman, Khartoum in a family of artists. Her music carries the tenderness of Sudanese Arabic and the nostalgic pulse of Sudan's 1980s sound. Connect with Mai Elgizouli 👉 https://instagram.com/mai_egizouli   Hosted by Suzanne Gaber 👉  https://instagram.com/suzannegaber FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Day 3 at Habibi Festival 2025 brings two boundary-pushing Arab artists: Iraqi-American visual artist-turned-musician Maryam Turkey and Egyptian oud player Mohamed Abozekry. They discuss their artistic journeys, creative transitions, and their unique collaborative processes. Turkey details her move into music in New York, where she found a more playful and collaborative creative space. She discusses her new album, which innovatively revives classical Arabic themes of love and lust by repurposing lyrics from forgotten Iraqi folk music. Abozekry reflects on his rapid musical development starting with Naseer Shamma at Arabic Oud House. He shares the challenges and rewards of evolving from a strictly instrumentalist role to embracing singing and composition, which has allowed for a new phase of creative fun and experimentation in his work. The artists share their conceptual themes, from Turkey's exploration of inspiration and freedom in "Ahlam" to Abozekry's method of refining new compositions through touring.    0:00:00 Performance by Maryam Turkey and Band 0:36:23 afikra Quartertones Invites the Two Musicians on Stage for a Conversation 0:37:24 Maryam Turkey's Childhood in Iraq & Transition from Visual Art to Music  0:39:39 Mohamed Abozekry's Journey with the Oud 0:42:13 The Joy of Creative Collaboration 0:45:26 Maryam's Latest Album: Reusing Iraqi Folk Lyrics 0:48:17 Mohamed's Roh El Fouad Album & Using Touring To Try New Arrangements 0:49:36 Maryam's Ahlam: Conceptual Themes, Freedom & Lust 0:52:20 The Mohamed Abozekry Sextet Takes the Stage 2:07:35 afikra Quartertones Invites the Two Musicians on Stage   Mohamed Abozekry is a Franco-Egyptian musician who entered the Arabic Oud House in Cairo at a very early age and received his teaching from Naseer Shamma. At the age of fifteen, he became the youngest professor of Oud in the Arab world. He formed several groups, including the Mohamed Abozekry Sextet and received the first prize at the international Oud competition in Damascus in 2009. In 2010 he formed the quartet Heejaz which also includes Guillaume Hogan (guitar), Anne Laure Bourget (percussion) and Hugo Reydet (double bass).  Connect with  Mohamed Abozekry 👉 https://instagram.com/m.abozekry Maryam Turkey is an Iraqi-American artist and designer based in Brooklyn, New York. In 2009, she moved with her family as refugees to the United States, where she attended Baltimore School for the Arts high school and learned traditional painting. She continued her art and design education at Pratt Institute, where she earned her Bachelor of Industrial Design in 2017. Shortly after graduation, Turkey was awarded an art residency at Domaine de Boisbuchet where she was mentored by Sabine Marcelis. Turkey’s sculptural practice began then. In 2019 she was awarded an art residency at the Museum of Art and Design, where she developed her ongoing paper clay techniques. She has recently made a transition to a career in music as a singer-songwriter.  Connect with Maryam Turkey 👉 https://instagram.com/maryamturkey   Hosted by Daleelah Saleh   Egyptian-American multi-hyphenate creative, passionate about storytelling at the intersections of culture, activism, and media. Connect with Daleelah Saleh 👉  https://instagram.com/medialeelah FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Experience day two of the fifth edition of Habibi Festival, hosted at Joe’s Pub in Brooklyn. The evening begins with the festival co-founders, Yacine Boulares and Meera Dugal, welcoming the audience and reflecting on the festival’s mission of celebrating the living, breathing music, culture, and traditions of the Arab region and actively combating their "museumification." The night features contemporary Egyptian artist Maii Waleed in her second appearance this year, joined by a New York-based band, followed by the critically acclaimed Palestinian rock star, composer, and guitarist Rasha Nahas. Following her powerful performance, Nahas sits down with afikra for a Q&A discussing the impact of the last two years on her creative process, her upcoming bilingual album, and how her multi-generational family history and connection to the land directly influence her music, especially in her unreleased track, "Once Upon a Time in Palestine."   0:00 Welcome to Day 2 of the 5th Habibi Festival at Joe's Pub 0:49 The Mission: Combating the "Museumification" of Arab Culture 1:35 Habibi Festival's Partnership with Celebrate Brooklyn and afikra 3:48 Maii Waleed Takes the Stage with Her All-American Band  12:45 Maii Waleed Performs "Neptune" (On Losing Hope and Silver Lining) 21:04 Maii Waleed Performs "Louloua"  25:22 Maii Waleed Performs "Ehdefini" (Throw Me Out of This System) 30:06 Maii Waleed Performs Her Last Two Tracks  39:53 Rasha Nahas Takes the Stage: How to Survive Whole as a Victim 47:17 Rasha Nahas Performs "Desert" From her Debut Record 52:19 Shukran and Invitation to Dance/Cry 56:34 Rasha Nahas Performs "War" 59:36 Rasha Nahas Performs "Nbeed" (Wine) 1:04:19 Rasha Nahas Performs a New, Unreleased Song 1:09:26 Rasha Nahas Performs "Ghanneeli" (Latest Single) 1:16:39 Rasha Nahas Performs "Once Upon a Time in Palestine" (Unreleased) 1:24:41 Rasha Nahas Performs "The Skies Don't Care" (First Song Written at 17, in Jerusalem) 1:31:06 afikra Quartertones Interviews Rasha Nahas on Stage 1:33:18 Discussing the New Bilingual Album and its Themes 1:34:04 The Multi-Generational Trauma and Shared Story of Palestinians 1:35:46 The Indigenous Connection to Land is Not a Cliché 1:36:40 Rasha Nahas on How the Last Two Years Shattered the Soul and Influenced Art 1:39:41 The Influence of Berlin's Weimar Era Cabaret on Her Music 1:42:30 Recording the Amrat Album in the Occupied Golan Heights 1:44:41 Life in New York City and the New Energy of Her Local Band 1:46:00 Future Goals: Community, Family, Health, and Releasing Soulful Music   Maii Waleed is a singer-songwriter, pianist and guitarist born and raised in Alexandria. She was once a part of Telepoetic, an Electro-Rock Egyptian band performing their first gig on 100live music festival for electronic arts. She dropped her first album, Moga, in 2013 which was produced with Zeid Hamdan. Over the years Maii had collaborated with various artists in her community as well as internationally. In the year 2015 she released tracks with Jordanian electronica trio Zaed Naes. That was later followed by a couple of EPs with Zeid Hamdan within the umbrella of their collaboration project Maii and Zeid.  Connect with Maii Waleed 👉 https://instagram.com/maiiwaleeed Rasha Nahas is a multifaceted Palestinian artist known for her distinctive approach to songwriting, storytelling, and performance. A singer, composer, actress, and instrumentalist, she has a unique sound that is rooted in her early training in classical guitar and her formative years in Haifa's underground music scene. Her genre-defying style weaves the traditional and popular music influences of her homeland with the raw intensity of electric rock. Her 2021 debut album Desert chronicled her journey from Haifa to Berlin. Her second album, Amrat, was released in 2023 via UK label Cooking Vinyl, marking her first foray into Arabic language lyrics, exploring the thematic duality of urban and rural life. Recorded at 67 Studio in the occupied Golan Heights and featuring contributions from leading lights of Palestine's indie scene, its success secured tours across Europe, South America, the UK and West Asia. Connect with Rasha Nahas 👉 https://instagram.com/rasha_nahas   Hosted by Tarik Zahr Tarik Zahr is a afikra ambassador, born in Lebanon, raised in the UAE and currently in the US, getting his PhD at Columbia University in Molecular Pharmacology. He works in the Medical Campus' Diabetes Center focusing on fatty liver disease and cholesterol metabolism. He has a huge interest in Arab and SWANA history, food, and music, and is curious about his Druze faith. Connect with Tarik Zahr 👉 https://instagram.com/adventuresoftartarsauce   FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Habibi Festival is back for a fifth year with performances and talks on stage hosted by afikra, which we'll be releasing on our Quartertones series. Day 1 opens with a solo performance by Maii Waleed, an artist from Alexandria, Egypt, in her debut at Joe's Pub. She sings tracks from her previous EP, including "Neptune" and "Sama", and "Fashi" from her upcoming EP.  Then violinist Layale Chaker takes the stage with her quintet, including a pianist, a drummer, a cellist and a double-bassist. She opened her set with a piece called "Anatomie of Titus – Fall of Rome". She discussed her album "Radio Afloat", which explores the sacred relationship between people and their land, and the grief and reverence that many Arab artists feel—especially in the diaspora—for this connection. She also mentioned her album "Inner Rhyme" inspired by the 12 meters in classical Arabic poetry. She shared that music, especially instrumental music, serves as a wordless art of suggestion, allowing listeners to attribute their own emotions to it. Chaker also performed a piece called "Southern Sky", inspired by a childhood memory of her village in southern Lebanon, near the border, and the starry nights she experienced there. Her final pieces were "Ocean to Ocean" which was inspired by a long poem by Ounsi el-Hajj, and "Nocturnal Backburn" that talks about native plants regrowing after a controlled fire. The performance is followed by a Q&A with Layale Chaker who explains that the violin was an instrument her mother chose for her, but one that has become an extension of herself.  Every year Habibi Festival takes listeners on a journey of the sounds wafting through the airwaves and living rooms of cities spanning Marrakech to Baghdad. This performing arts festival is a collaboration between the Director of Joe's Pub Alex Knowlton, artist/composer/curator Yacine Boulares, and curator/producer Meera Dugal who are bonded by the goal of creating more joyful spaces for performance, conversation, and storytelling from this part of the world. Explore Habibi Festival 👉 https://www.instagram.com/habibifestival/?hl=en   0:00 Welcome to Habibi Festival 2025 14:02 Honoring Artists and Their Courage 18:00 Maii Waleed's Joe's Pub Debut 26:13 "Neptune": A Song of Hope 31:19 "Sama": Believing the Sky is Open 43:24 Layale Chaker Performs: Music as a Witness to Resistance 1:02:22 "Southern Sky": A Lebanese Memory 1:35:19 "Ocean to Ocean" and "Nocturnal Backburn" 1:45:25 afikra Q&A With Layale Chaker 1:47:01 Layale's Inspiration: Arabic Poetry and "Inner Rhyme" 1:50:01 "Radio Afloat": People, Land, and Collective Grief 1:52:16 The Wordless Art of Instrumental Music 1:54:10 Her Story With the Violin   Composer and violinist Layale Chaker was raised in Lebanon and is renowned for her beguiling and complex sound that masterfully intersects classical contemporary music, jazz, Arabic music, and improvisation, treating art as a vital crossroads where ancestral and contemporary voices meet. An award-winning artist and Jerome Hill Fellow, Layale released a double portrait album in 2024 on In a Circle Records: Vigil (featuring her classical works with the ETHEL Quartet) and Radio Afloat (with her chamber jazz quintet, Sarafand). These works reflect on the intertwined destinies of people and the natural world, building upon the success of her highly-praised 2019 debut album, Inner Rhyme.  Connect with Layale Chaker 👉 https://instagram.com/layalechaker Maii Waleed is a singer-songwriter, pianist and guitarist born and raised in Alexandria. She was once a part of Telepoetic, an Electro-Rock Egyptian band performing their first gig on 100live music festival for electronic arts. She dropped her first album, Moga, in 2013 which was produced with Zeid Hamdan.  Connect with Maii Waleed 👉 https://instagram.com/maiiwaleeed   Hosted by Helena Reyad 👉 https://instagram.com/helanareyad   Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊  https://spoti.fi/47I59ns FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Musician and composer Maya Youssef takes us on her unique journey with the qanun. Currently based in London, Maya delves into her early musical upbringing in Damascus to challenging traditional perceptions of the 78-stringed Instrument and developing her own innovative approach to composition and teaching. She discusses the profound connection between the qanun and human emotion, and how music became a form of prayer and healing during personal and global turmoil. Maya also delves into the intricacies of Arabic music theory, improvisation, and the importance of embodying music.   0:00 The Expressive Power of the Qanun 0:05 Composing During Wartime: Music as Prayer 0:27 Discovering the Qanun and Defying Expectations 2:00 Musical Upbringing in Damascus 4:04 Early Music Education and Discipline 5:37 The Qanun's Call and a Taxi Driver's Challenge 9:00 Critiquing Traditional Qanun Education 11:59 The Struggle with Improvisation (Taqasim) 15:39 An Illuminating Experience in Aleppo 18:45 Unlearning Theory and Embracing Organic Learning 22:59 Demonstrating Maqam Switches 24:42 Foundational Maqamat and Their Evolution 29:08 Composing "Queen of the Night" 33:37 The Songwriting Process: Music as Healing 38:00 The Emotional Spectrum of the Qanun 40:46 "Samai of Trees" and Orchestral Collaborations 44:51 Unintentional Influences  49:10 Collaboration with Musicians and Sheet Music 51:54 The Qanun's Role and Limitations 53:20 The "Qanun Goats" 54:50 The Search for the Best Qanun Maker 56:05 Connecting with Maya Youssef   Maya Youssef is a qanun player and composer from Damascus now based in the UK. Her music is rooted in the Arabic classical tradition but forges pathways into jazz, Western classical and Latin styles. It explores the emotional and healing qualities of music. Her debut album Syrian Dreams, produced by Joe Boyd, was highly-acclaimed in music press around the world and has led to many awards, performances on prestigious stages. She describes her highest honor to be naming the Year 6 class of Dalmain Primary School in London "Youssef" in recognition of her inspirational work. Connect with Maya Youssef 👉 https://instagram.com/mayayoussefmusic   Hosted by Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://instagram.com/mikey_mu   Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊  https://spoti.fi/47I59ns FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rapper, writer, and thought leader Akala joins us on Quartertones live at Sole DXB to talk about his early career steps in London, the city's unique blends due to its history, and his drive to connect with diverse audiences. He shares insights into the impact of colonialism and the importance of embracing shared cultural heritage from Shakespeare to his Jamaican influences. We discuss the significance of South-South solidarity and the changing nature of global power dynamics. Akala reflects on the complexities of identity, privilege, and the evolving cultural landscape in Europe.  This episode was recorded live on the Sole DXB stage in Dubai on December 15, 2024.    00:00 Introduction  01:31 Akala's Early Career and Diverse Influences 02:07 Growing Up in Multicultural London 04:30 The Impact of Shared Struggles 07:27 Exploring Shakespeare and Cultural Ownership 13:16 Challenging Bias and Assumptions 15:28 Embracing Diverse Cultural Influences 16:43 The Unique Perspective of UK Hip Hop 19:35 Navigating Success and Global Perspectives 20:02 South-South Solidarity and Global Power Dynamics 20:51 The Complexity of Human Relationships 22:16 Class and Community: A Personal Reflection 23:36 Global Inequality and Historical Context 27:10 The Future of Global Relations 30:34 Concluding Thoughts on Privilege and Luck   Born Kingslee James McLean Daley in the UK, Akala is a British rapper, writer and activist. His stepfather was a stage manager at the Hackney Empire theatre, and he often visited it before his teens. His older sister is none other than rapper Ms. Dynamite (Niomi Arleen). In 2006, he released his debut album, It's Not a Rumour, which featured the single "Shakespeare" and earned him a hip hop award at the MOBO Awards. The following year, he released a second album, Freedom Lasso, which featured the track "Comedy Tragedy History," also inspired by Shakespeare. Akala's third album, DoubleThink , was released in 2010, followed by a mixtape titled Knowledge Is Power in 2012, and a fourth album, The Thieves Banquet in 2013. He has been included on the annual Powerlist of the 100 most influential Black British people in the UK, most recently making the 2021 edition.  Connect with Akala 👉 https://instagram.com/akalamusic   Hosted by Mikey Muhanna Connect directly with Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://instagram.com/mikey_mu Explore Sole DXB 👉 https://www.instagram.com/soledxb/   Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊 https://spoti.fi/47I59ns FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra

Palestinian singer Lina Makoul delves into the responsibility of artists to translate public sentiment, the worsening situation in Gaza and the West Bank, and the impact of the 900 new checkpoints added by the occupation on day-to-day Palestinian life. Makoul talks about her journey as an independent artist, her research into Palestinian history, and the challenges faced by Palestinian artists under occupation. The discussion also covers the importance of community and creative collaborations, and the power of art in resistance. Makoul also shares her experiences on international tours and highlights the significance of maintaining genuine artistic expression amidst political and economic pressures.  This episode was recorded on May 19, 2025   00:00 Introduction  02:45 Daily Life and Struggles in Palestine 06:18 Reclaiming Voice and Story 08:06 Challenges for Independent Palestinian Artists 08:26 Historical Context and Cultural Identity 10:13 Art as a Form of Resistance 13:14 Global Perception of Palestine 24:17 Collaborative Creative Projects 32:40 Building a Community-Driven Ecosystem 01:02:55 Navigating Fame and Authenticity 01:09:38 Final Thoughts Lina Makoul is a Palestinian singer-songwriter and music producer who rose to prominence after winning "The Voice Israel" in 2013. Initially signing with a manager and achieving international chart success with English-language pop, she later chose to become an independent artist in 2020. This shift allowed her to embrace her Palestinian heritage more fully, creating indie-pop music primarily in Arabic and using her platform to advocate for Palestinian artists and narratives. Makoul is known for blending contemporary sounds with cultural influences and actively supports Palestinian talent in her music video productions. She opened for Saint Levant on his 2024 "Deira" tour and is set to release her new EP, "Radical." Connect with Lina Makoul 👉 https://www.instagram.com/linamakoul Hosted by Mikey Muhanna Connect with Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://www.instagram.com/mikey_mu/ FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra

Palestinian-Jordanian singer, songwriter, and producer Dana Salah shares her journey graduating from Duke University to DJing in New York City and writing songs in Jay-Z's studio to transitioning to creating and performing songs in Arabic. She discusses the impact of DJing on her music writing, and the importance of staying connected with her culture. She reflects on her musical influences and the challenges of blending modern and traditional elements in her work. The conversation covers her songwriting process, her response to the current situation with Palestinians, and anecdotes around her tracks "Weino", "Ghazaleh", and "Ya Tal3een", delving into the Palestinian "tarweedeh" style of singing and writing.     00:00 Introduction  01:31 Early Career Struggles and Successes 03:32 DJing and Musical Influences 09:17 Songwriting Process and Inspirations 13:58 Transition to Arabic Music 19:36 Performing and Connecting with Audiences 22:15 Balancing Nostalgia and Cultural Identity 24:04 Strategic Decisions and Creative Process 25:08 Balancing Multiple Roles in the Music Industry 26:55 Discovering and Recovering Palestinian Folk Songs 29:37 Emotional Connection to Music and Family 38:26 Production Techniques and Song Preferences 45:35 Influences and Future Aspirations   Dana Salah is a Palestinian-Jordanian singer and songwriter blending Arabic folk with modern pop. After starting her career in New York as King Deco, she returned to Jordan to embrace her Arab roots. Known for hits like Weino and Rajieen, she’s a leading voice in contemporary Arabic music and was the first female Jordanian artist featured on a Times Square billboard. Connect with Dana Saleh 👉 https://instagram.com/danasalah   Hosted by Mikey Muhanna Connect directly with Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://instagram.com/mikey_mu   Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊  https://spoti.fi/47I59ns FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra

In this episode of Quartertones, we're joined by Palestinian composer and musician, Issa Boulos who tells us about his deep connection to Jerusalem and Palestine, and how his upbringing influenced his approach to music and life. Boulos recounts his unique experiences growing up in a small town, his family's musical traditions, and the cultural life in Ramallah. He delves into the evolution of Palestinian resistance music from 1967 onwards, sharing insights about key musical acts and their impact. He also reflects on his imprisonment, the intricate relationship between music and political resistance, and his subsequent move to the United States, where he pursued his studies in music composition and ethnomusicology, and continued to document the Palestinian narrative through his work. The conversation explores Boulos's bold approach to integrating Middle Eastern musical elements with Western orchestration, emphasizing the importance of cultural authenticity and representation. 00:00 Introduction  00:29 Early Life and Connection to Palestine 02:41 Musical Family and Cultural Influences 07:19 Palestinian Resistance Music and Popular Acts 17:43 Challenges and Political Expression in Music 27:53 Life in the US and Continued Musical Journey 29:03 Returning to College  31:37 The Drive to Compose Music 33:21 Documenting the Palestinian Narrative 34:37 Prison Experience as a Musician 38:16 Musical Reflections from Prison 49:06 Cultural Integration in Music 01:03:03 Final Thoughts and Reflections Issa Boulos is an internationally recognized composer, lyricist, and ethnomusicologist known for blending traditional instruments with modern composition. His work spans orchestral, chamber, and vocal music, with commissions from major ensembles like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Silk Road Ensemble. He has composed for films, plays, and musicals, earning acclaim in the US, the Middle East, and Europe. Boulos holds a PhD in ethnomusicology from Leiden University and has taught at the University of Chicago. He co-founded the Qatar Music Academy and currently manages the Harper College Community Music and Arts Center while serving as adjunct music faculty. Connect with Boulos 👉 https://www.instagram.com/issaboulos/ Hosted by: Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://www.instagram.com/mikey_mu/?hl=en-gb Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊 https://spoti.fi/47I59ns FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra

In this episode of Quartertones, we're joined by Barbara Lebrun, the author of "Dalida: Mythe et Mémoire." We explore the remarkable career of Dalida, the iconic singer who rose to fame in the mid-20th century. Born in Cairo to an Italian family, Yolanda Gigliotti's journey to stardom began when she moved to France in 1954. Initially adopting an Italian persona to navigate the complexities of the French music industry, she later embraced her Egyptian roots, becoming a symbol of Franco-Arab friendship. The episode delves into her rise as a Mediterranean sensation, her multi-lingual career spanning various languages including Arabic, and her tragic end in 1987. We also discuss the scholarly perspective on her impact and how her posthumous recognition has evolved over the years. 00:00 Introduction: The Challenges of an Egyptian Artist in France 01:30 Early Life and Career Beginnings 01:46 Rise to Fame in France 03:15 Cultural Identity and Multilingualism 03:48 Personal Tragedies and Their Impact 05:02 Scholarly Interest and Changing Perspectives 06:20 Navigating the French Music Industry 11:06 Embracing Egyptian Roots and Arabic Music 29:29 The Miss Egypt Controversy 34:29 Transnational Success and Limitations 01:05:12 Final Years and Legacy Barbara Lebrun has been a Senior Lecturer in French Cultural Studies, at the University of Manchester since 2002. Her teaching covers the history, politics and culture of modern and contemporary French society, from the 19th century to the present. Her research is more narrowly focused on French popular music since the 1950s, with special interests in the representation of cultural identities (ethnicity, race, gender, generation...) and their relative commercial success and critical prestige. Her two monographs, "Protest Music in France" (Ashgate 2009; re-ed Routledge 2016) and "Dalida: Mythe et Mémoire" (Le Mot et le reste, 2020), examine contemporary popular music in France from the distinct but complementary perspectives of "alternative" and "mainstream" cultures, with forays into audience research, music festivals, posthumous fame, elitism, and the representation of whiteness, exoticism and cosmopolitanism in metropolitan France. Cautiously, from the self-conscious perspective of white scholarship, she is currently developing a new project on musical representations of racial and other types of diversity in French variétés (mainstream pop), from the 1960s to the late 1980s.  Hosted by: Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://www.instagram.com/mikey_mu/?hl=en-gb FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra

In this special episode of Quartertones in collaboration with XP Air, we sit down with prominent artist Dreamville's Bas, to discuss his journey in the music industry. We talk about the financial challenges of touring, the value of exposure over immediate monetary gain, and the significance of rehearsals and meticulous work ethic exemplified by artists like J. Cole and Drake. Bas reflects on his Sudanese heritage, the cultural pride that comes with it, and how his background influences his music. The conversation also covers Bas’s experiences with evolving music industry trends, including streaming and AI technology, and the importance of artist development and investing in oneself. The episode wraps up with reflections on family involvement in his career, navigating business relationships, and recommendations for fans looking to better understand Bas's musical perspective. Bas also shares exciting news about his upcoming collaboration with the band The Hics from London. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with behind-the-scenes stories and valuable lessons for aspiring musicians. 00:00 Introduction  00:49 First Impressions of Riyadh 01:37 Crafting the Perfect Festival Set 02:32 Dreamville and the Power of Dreams 03:54 The Journey of Artistic Development 05:31 Investing in Yourself as an Artist 08:33 Global Influences and Musical Evolution 13:21 Sudanese Pride and Cultural Impact 18:15 Family Support and Changing Perspectives 20:10 Navigating Industry Challenges 20:36 The Evolution of Music Revenue 21:30 Adapting to Technological Changes 23:23 Crafting a Unique Narrative 26:14 Balancing Art and Commerce 26:44 The Importance of Touring 30:05 Managing Online Presence 32:19 Working with Family and Friends 36:13 Top Album Recommendations 37:05 Upcoming Projects and Collaborations Abbas Hamad, known professionally as Bas, is a French-born Sudanese-American rapper born on May 27, 1987, in Paris, France.At the age of eight, he moved with his family to Jamaica, Queens, New York City.Bas is signed to J. Cole's Dreamville Records and Interscope Records.He has released four studio albums: Last Winter (2014), Too High to Riot (2016), Milky Way (2018), and We Only Talk About Real Shit When We're F****d Up (2023).His music often explores themes related to his Sudanese heritage and personal experiences. ​ Connect with Bas 👉 https://www.instagram.com/bas XP Air are podcast conversations that were recorded as part of XP Music Futures in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in December of 2024. XP Music Futures is a one-of-a-kind event that unites people and talent from the music industry through forward-thinking programming. Three days of captivating sessions in various formats, facilitated by diverse speakers, attended by our ever-growing music community.  Stay tuned for more XP Air 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@xpmusicfutures.mdlbeast Hosted by: Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://www.instagram.com/mikey_mu/?hl=en-gb FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra

The inspiring Emel Mathlouthi joins Tanya Khoury on the Quoz Arts Fest stage in Dubai for a riveting discussion on music, cultural roots, and breaking gender norms in the music industry. Emel shares her journey of proving that women can excel in music production, creating her all-female album "MRA," and the significance of connecting with audiences through heart and authenticity.  This special episode of The afikra Podcast was recorded on the Quoz Arts Fest stage at alserkal in Dubai in January, and is one in five episodes which will be published on this podcast or Quartertones. Make sure to check them out! 00:00 Introduction by Big Hass 02:29 Emel Mathlouthi's Performance Insights 04:01 Creating the Album "MRA" 07:02 Global Performances and Cultural Influences 09:39 The Symbolism of the Eye 10:52 Inspiring the Younger Generation 13:49 Collaborations and Inspirations 15:24 Upcoming Performance Highlights 16:57 Literary Inspirations  Emel Mathlouthi is a Tunisian-American singer, songwriter, musician and producer. Her music combines a range of influences — bringing together protest songs, North African percussion, cello, electronic textures and western musical tradition.  Connect with Emel 👉https://www.instagram.com/emelmathlouthi/ Quoz Arts Fest is a neighborhood festival by alserkal, where the freshest contemporary culture and creativity collide in one community event that welcomes young, old, families and pets. It features live performances, exhibitions, food trucks, pop-up shops plus a line-up of hands-on workshops, talks, and film screenings that aim to inspire. Artists transform the alserkal avenue's galleries and public spaces with immersive installations, and you get a close-up on them as well as rising musicians and DJs making waves through conversations on stage.  Follow alserkal 👉 https://www.instagram.com/alserkalavenue Hosted by: Tanya Khoury 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DEsC6EIxxgh/?img_index=1 FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra

DJ amen RA welcomes the talented Syrian-American rapper, poet and longtime friend of afikra, Omar Offendum, to the Quoz Arts Fest stage. Host Tanya Khoury asks Offendum to delve into topics ranging from the impact of war on art and identity, and the significance of maintaining cultural heritage through creative expression, to the evolving landscape of Arabic hip hop. Offendum shares insights on his music projects like "Little Syria," reflects on the timeless relevance of his lyrics, and discusses his aspirations for Syria's future. This conversation also highlights the importance of intergenerational connections, the role of language in shaping identities, and the vitality of cultural resilience. This special episode of Quartertones was recorded on the Quoz Arts Fest stage at alserkal in Dubai in January, and is one in five episodes which will be published on this podcast or The afikra Podcast. Make sure to check them out! 00:00 Introduction 02:09 A Journey Through Music and Life & The Weight of War and Guilt 03:28 Little Syria: A Theatrical and Musical Experience 05:08 Reflections on Syrian Americana and Timeless Lyrics 09:44 The Importance of Arabic in Music and Family 14:26 Inspiration from Global Hip Hop Artists 19:14 The Hope for Syria and the Power of Art 24:22 Audience Interaction  27:30 Closing Remarks and Personal Reflections Omar Offendum is a trailblazing Syrian-American rapper and poet based in Los Angeles, known for his seamless blend of hip-hop and Arabic poetry. As an architecture graduate, Offendum has uniquely navigated his path, merging art with activism and engaging diverse global audiences. Offendum's contributions extend beyond music: he's a vocal advocate for humanitarian causes, raising millions for relief efforts, and has collaborated with esteemed academic institutions, museums, and cultural organizations worldwide. Connect with Omar 👉 https://www.instagram.com/offendum/ Quoz Arts Fest is a neighborhood festival by alserkal, where the freshest contemporary culture and creativity collide in one community event that welcomes young, old, families and pets. It features live performances, exhibitions, food trucks, pop-up shops plus a line-up of hands-on workshops, talks, and film screenings that aim to inspire. Artists transform the alserkal avenue's galleries and public spaces with immersive installations, and you get a close-up on them as well as rising musicians and DJs making waves through conversations on stage.  Follow alserkal 👉 https://www.instagram.com/alserkalavenue Explore Quoz Arts Fest 👉 https://quozartsfest.alserkal.online/ Hosted by: Tanya Khoury 👉 https://www.instagram.com/p/DEsC6EIxxgh/?img_index=1 FOLLOW & RATE THE QUARTERTONES PODCAST:» Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afikra-quartertones/id1646407556» Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/26VHvC6yVOxlRFjeOts6uf» Anghami: https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1044639452THIS SERIES IS PART OF THE AFIKRA PODCAST NETWORK Explore all episodes in this series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfYG40bwRKl7FiLcdH_iSgv4RiXEy4GAhABOUT AFIKRAafikra | عفكرة is a movement to convert passive interest in the Arab world to active intellectual curiosity. We aim to collectively reframe the dominant narrative of the region by exploring the histories and cultures of the region – past, present and future – through conversations driven by curiosity.📍 Local events in 40+ locations worldwide http://afikra.com/chapters🎧 New podcasts + videos weekly http://afikra.com/podcasts⚡ Become a member: https://www.afikra.com/membership🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afikra_🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afikra.official🔗 Twitter: https://twitter.com/afikra