Mayada Abuhaleeqa, Staff Writer Recommendation: Kadim Al Sahir “Every song by Kadim Al Sahir is worth listening to. My mother, who is Iraqi, introduced me to his music, and through her, I discovered a voice unlike any other. His vocals are breathtaking — rich, soulful, and effortlessly powerful. His songs, deeply poetic and romantic, carry an emotional depth that lingers long after they end. I wouldn’t call myself an expert on his work, but I feel incredibly fortunate to have attended his concert in Abu Dhabi last weekend. The experience was mesmerizing—thousands of voices rising in unison, bodies swaying to the rhythm, a shared reverence for music that transcended words.”

Nicoleta Geru, Senior Features Editor Recommendation: "Allo" by Balti “The song always sets the mood, and is a great example of how Arabic rap mixes deep emotions with an infectious beat. The song communicates the frustration of unanswered calls, both literally and metaphorically. It captures the feeling of trying to reach someone who just will not pick up. The lyrics are full of longing and persistence, making it easy to connect with on a personal level. Recently, Mossel released a remix called “Allo Allo,” giving the theme a fresh, playful energy with a more upbeat vibe. Both tracks are definitely worth a listen if you are in the mood to reflect or just want something fun to vibe to.”

Dulce Pop-Bonini, Deputy Multimedia Editor Recommendation: Cairokee (Band) & "Ahwak" by Abdel Halim Hafez (1953) “My friends love Cairokee and as a result, I got looped in as well. I listened to the song for the first time during my sophomore fall, right before I left for my first study away in Spring 2024. Now, whenever I listen to it, a wave of nostalgia washes over me as I recall precious moments from that semester.”

Noor Nasser, class of 2028 Recommendation: Zeyne “Zeyne is one of the first Jordanian artists to become popular on more than a national level, her voice is heard all across the globe. Her music always stays true to her nationality but she is not afraid to branch out. In terms of lyricism, I would say it is her strongest suit, and vocally, she is incredibly talented and inspiring!”

Nour Abdelaziz, Class of 2025 Recommendations: "Deira" by Saint Levant feat. MC Abdul (2023) Translating to home in Arabic and featuring 15-year-old Palestinian rapper MC Abdul from Gaza, this song reflects a deep appreciation for Palestine and a yearning to return.

"Roma" by Cairokee (2022) This pop album comprising 12 songs marks a shift in Cairokee’s musical style from traditional rock to a more pop-infused sound. As a whole, the album tells the story of a man lost in search of his path.

"Ouda" by Hamid Al Shaeri (1988) A nostalgic hit from the late 1980s, the song "Ouda" embodies the retro Egyptian pop genre that remains beloved across different generations.

"Mafi Mennik" by Aziz Maraka (2020) “Highlighting Jordanian musical talent, with Aziz Maraka’s signature blend of alternative Arabic music and jazz influences, Mafi Mennik is a raw piano ballad that aches with lost love. It’s the kind of song that doesn’t just remind you of someone; it pulls you back to them for a few haunting minutes.”

"Sout El Horeya" – Cairokee (2011) Translated to The Voice of Freedom, this song became an anthem of the 2011 Egyptian Revolution, symbolizing the spirit of change, resistance, and hope.