The MJLS

I had the pleasure of meeting VA at a house party/hang out in Dubai back in 2021. We listened to each other’s unreleased records and talk music for hours. In this episode, Prince and I discuss the process of finding your sound, blending different styles together, being okay with feeling uncomfortable in new musical territories, and how to fit yourself into a brand-new scene.

Dubai based Balochi-Filipino artist Seki Supervillain has introduced a western-contemporary, energetic sound to the Dubai music scene by introducing elements of hyperpop, trap-hip/hop and melodic rap in his music. The artist not only expresses this style in his music but in his fashion as well tying in futuristic and androgynous streetwear with the brand that is Seki Supervillain.   Follow Seki at: @sekisupervillain Follow Emaan at: @emaanzadjali Follow Wealth Care Records at: @wealthcarerecords 

Dania's voice has a nostalgic sound to it. It will immediately throw me back to the smell of oud in my grandfathers house with old Arabic records playing in the background.  In this episode Dania and I discussed what it means to have a collective/team, songwriting techniques and incorporating Arabic into our music.

Tac’s authenticity isn’t only expressed in the way he carries himself, but also in his lyrics and expressive delivery. Dubai based Egyptian artist Tac is a rapper and talented music producer and engineer - all round artist.  He and I go into depth about originality, experimenting with new styles, expectations and listing some of our favorite artists coming up right now! Follow him at: @tac.pls

The day I found out about Jara, I remember being so shocked and excited. I was watching her music video for her song “966”. Seeing a Saudi woman in a Hijab rapping in Saudi Arabia in a men’s Bisht and Keffiyeh while representing her country for National Day?! A whole controversy in itself while beautifully executing such a powerful message. I couldn’t wait for the opportunity to talk to her. We discussed topics from receiving support from parents, to including mental health in her music, modesty vs boldness and more!

I have referred to Big Hass as the “Father of The MENA Music Industry” for his prominent and consistent love and support he shows to artists coming out of the region. From his magazine and blog “Re-Volt” to his radio presence on Dubai’s Pulse 95 FM, Hass uses his platforms to promote emerging artists in the scene and has built his entire career on doing so. In this episode, we discussed what it means to build and be part of a music community, his perspective as a Middle Eastern parent, and his take on raising a child pursuing a career in a creative field.

One of the things about Nadine that stood out to me the most was her outspoken and rebellious attitude she expresses in her music. The way she gracefully addresses topics from political conflicts to self love is incredibly inspiring.   I had the honor of talking to her and discussing topics from: our perspectives on growing up with muslim parents to unlearning traditions while maintaining a balance of finding ourselves and more!

I’ve been admiring Shebani’s music and journey since 2018 and finally had the pleasure of sitting down and getting to know her for the first time in this episode!   From relating to life as a Middle Eastern woman and artist - a controversy in itself, to opening up about the struggles we face tackling social and cultural norms.