As the music landscape continues to evolve, the Arab world has emerged as a powerhouse of talent in various genres. One genre that has been capturing hearts and ears alike is R&B, with a wave of incredibly talented Arab artists infusing soulful vibes into the music scene. Here are 10 Arab R&B artists that should be on everyone's radar in 2023.
Arabique
Arabique, the exceptionally talented R&B sensation hailing from Kuwait, has carved a distinctive niche in the music scene with a soulful voice that effortlessly weaves through the rich tapestry of rhythm and blues. With an innate ability to infuse emotion into every note, Arabique creates an immersive musical experience that resonates with audiences on a profound level.
Zeyne
Zeyne is a singer, songwriter, and musician hailing from Jordan and Palestine. Her musical roots extend from her grandmother to her mother, now finding resonance in her own voice. Recognized as the 'songbird,' Zeyne aims to infuse her music with personal truths, connecting with a global audience. Her journey commenced on social media, notably on her Instagram cover page @tuneswithzein, where her celestial vocals gained acclaim across the Middle East. Fast forward a year, and Zeyne is set to fuse her diverse musical influences into a unique Arabic sound, releasing original works that challenge the traditional boundaries of Arabic music. Join Zeyne on a musical adventure as she adds a fresh and innovative perspective to the vibrant tapestry of her heritage.
Lana Lubany
Lana Lubany, a Palestinian-American artist based in the UK, is currently making waves with her latest track, 'THE SNAKE,' marking her debut in singing both Arabic and English. Her journey to the spotlight began with a viral TikTok video where she serenaded her mom with the song. Supportively, her mom commented, "Finally! You see? It’s on a whole other level." Following the mainstream success of 'THE SNAKE,' Lana has been making remarkable progress in composing and releasing music. This article delves into her life, career, and lifestyle, exploring the facets that define her rising presence in the music scene.
Bea Kadri
Bea Kadri is an emerging Pop/R&B soulstress from Lebanon, whose musical journey is deeply rooted in the sounds of 90's pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Influenced by genres that laid the groundwork for her own storytelling, Bea released her debut single "Cloud 9" in 2018, encapsulating the theme of finding heaven within.
As Bea pursues her dreams and defies external opinions, she has unveiled a series of records that have graced Spotify, Apple Music, and Anghami editorials, as well as catching the attention of publications like GQ, Grazia, Emirates Woman, Harpers Bazaar, and What's On Magazine.
Drawing inspiration from artists such as H.E.R, Jhene Aiko, and Ariana Grande, Bea's musical essence exudes a chill and sultry vibe, while her lyrics provide a personal glimpse into her mind, revolving around themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and matters of the heart.
Bea's musical prowess is not confined to the studio; she has a robust background in live performances at venues, events, and festivals across Beirut, Dubai, and London. Notably, she graced the stage at the Brit Awards with Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton, standing proudly as a member of their choir. Bea Kadri is undoubtedly carving her path in the music scene, offering a unique blend of soulful melodies and empowering narratives.
Read More: Meet Bea Kadri, the rising Lebanese singer-songwriter turning her love for music into superstardom
Casa Vince
Casa Vince, the rising Emarati/Palestinian star in the region's music scene, is gaining widespread acclaim for his impressive command of lyrics and unique wordplay. His recent releases, such as the upbeat "Gulf Girl," the heartfelt "Ma Adaneek," and the reflective "Soul Searching," highlight his versatility, drawing fans from various musical tastes, from hip-hop enthusiasts to R&B lovers. With infectious beats and a magnetic presence, Casa Vince has successfully captured the attention and devotion of his audience.
Fafa
Fafa is a 24-year-old Emirati/Honduran singer and songwriter based in Abu Dhabi, whose passion lies in weaving narratives through music. Her musical journey took an intriguing turn when she left home to pursue university studies abroad, immersing herself in the blues scene in Chicago. Collaborating with recording artists and producers, she honed her style, drawing inspiration from her own experiences and the stories of those she connected with over the years.
Fafa's debut single, "Runnin’ (Can’t Stop Me)," serves as a powerful anthem about self-motivation and overcoming obstacles. It encourages taking control of excuses and setbacks, urging listeners to forge ahead even when faced with challenges. Beyond this, Fafa has penned other compelling songs such as "Sky Cries With Me" and "Toxic Love," crediting influences from the likes of Etta James, Amy Winehouse, and Sia for shaping her distinct singing style. Fafa finds motivation in pop music with profound messages, a sentiment evident in her own work.
In 2018, Fafa clinched the prestigious title of the Yasalam Emerging Talent Competition winner. Selected by a panel of judges from a pool of talented finalists, her victory marked a recognition of her musical prowess and potential, following hundreds of entries. Fafa is undoubtedly carving her niche in the music scene, blending heartfelt stories with a distinctive sound that resonates with audiences.
RITA L’OUJDIA
If you're not already following Rita L’Oujdia on Instagram, you might want to get on that because she's got something exciting in store for 2023. The Moroccan artist set the vibe in 2022 with the energetic party anthem "Dkhol So9 Rassek," a track that effortlessly blends various genres and cultural influences—a trademark in all of Rita's musical creations. For those who enjoy artists spitting bars in multiple languages, Rita's track "Ke Paso" is a must-listen, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
TAMTAM
Tamtam, the Saudi singer, undeniably asserted herself as a musical powerhouse with a career-defining 2022. Within that year, she not only unveiled her EP "ISMAK" but also played a significant role in Coca-Cola's World Cup campaign. Collaborating with Mexican sensation Danna Paola and Egyptian emcee Felukah on the track "A Kind of Magic," Tamtam showcased her versatility and international appeal. With such a stellar year behind her, it's evident that Tamtam's future in the music industry is exceptionally bright, and I have no doubt she will continue to elevate her creative success in 2023.
Shebani
Born in Iraq and raised in the UAE, Shébani has swiftly captivated a global audience with her music, offering an unforced yet enthralling experience that illuminates the depths of human emotions. Her vibrant, emotional, and unabashedly honest approach delves into the complexities of the human experience, embracing the beauty and flaws inherent in emotions like fear, love, regret, bliss, and anxiety. Shébani's music resonates as a genuine expression of the human condition, addressing modern-day challenges while embodying the essence of reflection and truth, particularly from a woman's perspective.
Choosing to convey her authentic self through music rather than words, Shébani has a unique ability to unveil hidden emotions with just a melodic line. Despite being raised in a creative family, she initially faced societal stigmas in her upbringing. It wasn't until 2015 that the Alternative R&B singer-songwriter officially launched her music career through YouTube covers and open-mic performances. In 2016, Shébani released her debut EP, 'Alter Ego,' comprising six tracks. Her career gained momentum, culminating in her graduation from The British and Irish Modern Music Institute in 2017. The same year, she opened for Pusha T at Sole DXB in December.
Shébani's impact extends beyond her music, inspiring fans worldwide with her genuine authenticity and vocal prowess. She has garnered support from high-profile artists, opening for Jorja Smith and Liam Payne in 2019, performing at The EXPO 2020 in Dubai, and recently opening for Khalid at Formula 1 Abu Dhabi in December 2021. Shébani's journey continues to unfold, leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene.
Abri
Hamdan Al Abri, born on April 18, 1981, in Dubai, is not only a Singer/Songwriter but also one of the founding members and the frontman of the soulful Dubai-based band ABRI. With a passion for singing from a young age, Abri embarked on his career collaborating with various musical groups both in Dubai and internationally. Alongside the band, ABRI, he achieved notable success, releasing two highly praised albums, namely, "Sunchild" and "Blank Notes." The band's musical journey took them on tours across India, Bahrain, the UK, the Maldives, and the U.A.E., sharing the stage with renowned artists like Erykah Badu, Ziggy Marley, Arrested Development, Kanye West, and Joss Stone.
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