In this episode of Shik Shak Shook Ones, hosts Danny Hajjar and Deana Soni delve into the listening habits of Arabic music fans across the diaspora and the Middle East and North Africa region. Joined by Salam Kmeid, Head of Content Marketing at Anghami, who brings 12 years of industry experience, the discussion covers popular artists, the impact of geography on music preferences, and the unique challenges faced by diaspora artists trying to break into the MENA market. They explore artists like Saint Levant, Elyanna, Amr Diab, Wegz, and talk about how music consumption varies across different regions. Salam also provides insights into major initiatives by Anghami to support emerging talents. Tune in to get a comprehensive look at the Arabic music scene both within and outside the MENA region.
In this episode of Shik Shak Shook Ones, hosts Danny Hajjar and Deana Soni delve into the listening habits of Arabic music fans across the diaspora and the Middle East and North Africa region. Joined by Salam Kmeid, Head of Content Marketing at Anghami, who brings 12 years of industry experience, the discussion covers popular artists, the impact of geography on music preferences, and the unique challenges faced by diaspora artists trying to break into the MENA market. They explore artists like Saint Levant, Elyanna, Amr Diab, Wegz, and talk about how music consumption varies across different regions. Salam also provides insights into major initiatives by Anghami to support emerging talents. Tune in to get a comprehensive look at the Arabic music scene both within and outside the MENA region.
00:00 Introduction to Regional Artists
00:35 Meet the Hosts and Guest
01:42 Diving into Listening Habits
02:43 Salam's Musical Preferences
06:19 Impact of Diaspora on Music
11:43 Top Artists in the Region
14:46 New Wave of Popular Artists
22:55 Diaspora Fans and Language Barriers
23:47 Elyanna's Impact and Diaspora Connection
24:16 Challenges for Non-Arabic Speaking Artists
25:12 Success Stories: Anees and Others
25:43 Audience Demographics and Listening Habits
26:44 Funny Story About Elyanna's Cover
27:58 European vs US Success for Artists
31:16 Focus on Local vs Diaspora Artists
32:04 Initiatives to Support Local Talents
33:25 Breakthrough Artists and Their Impact
41:13 Upcoming Projects and Initiatives
43:24 Closing Remarks and Gratitude
Salam is the Head of Content Marketing at Anghami. With over 12 years in the music industry, she has led major campaigns, including exclusive deals with global icons like Amr Diab, while championing emerging talents through initiatives like Sawt Jdeed. Salam also spearheaded impactful projects like reintroducing Rotana's catalog and Anghami’s mental health-focused Sukoon campaign.
Connect with Salam 👉 https://www.instagram.com/salamkmeid/
#Anghami #SalamKmeid #ShikShakShookOnes #ArabMusicians #ArabicMusic #AmrDiab #Elyanna #SaintLevant #ArabAmericans #Diaspora