Rock the Kasbah: The Best in Middle Eastern Music

Rock the Kasbah is the ultimate destination for fans of Middle Eastern music. From the latest chart-toppers to underrated classics, we’ve got the best of the best. Come on in and start exploring!

The best in Middle Eastern music

Whether you’re looking for the latest in Arab pop or want to refresh your classics playlist, we’ve got the best in Middle Eastern music right here. From musical heavyweights like Mohamed Mounir and Umm Kulthum to up-and-comers like Mai Kassab and Mohamad Alsuwaidan, these are the artists that are making waves in the region and beyond. So crank up the volume and get ready to rock the Kasbah!

What is Middle Eastern music?

Middle Eastern music covers a wide range of traditions from different parts of the region. The most common instruments are the oud (a lute-like instrument), the ney (a flute), and the tabla (a type of percussion instrument). These instruments are often used in traditional folk music, as well as in modern pop and rock.

Middle Eastern music has a long history, with many different styles developing over time. One of the most popular genres today is Raï, which originated in Algeria in the 1920s. Raï is a type of folk music that is characterized by its catchy tunes and sexually suggestive lyrics. Other popular genres include Shaabi (a type of Egyptian pop music) and Dabke (a type of folk music from Lebanon).

The history of Middle Eastern music

The history of Middle Eastern music is as rich and diverse as the region itself. From the traditional music of Morocco to the more modern sounds of Lebanon, there is a wide range of styles to explore.

Traditional Middle Eastern music is often based on Arabic, Turkish, or Persian scales and maqams (melodic modes). Instruments like the oud (a type of lute), ney (a type of flute), and darbuka (a type of drum) are commonly used. This music often has a very emotional quality to it, with passionate vocals and powerful rhythms.

Much of modern Middle Eastern music has been influenced by Western pop and rock music. This can be heard in the work of artists like Fairuz, Amr Diab, Kazem Al Saher, and Nawal al Zoghbi. While these artists may use Western instruments and drums, they often infuse their music with traditional Arabic sounds and melodies.

The different genres of Middle Eastern music

Rock the Kasbah: The Best in Middle Eastern Music explores the different genres of music from this region of the world. Featuring interviews with musicians and experts, the documentary spotlights the history and culture behind the music, as well as its influence on modern artists.

The instruments used in Middle Eastern music

Middle Eastern music is a rich and varied genre that includes a wide range of instruments. From the classic Egyptian oud to the Persian santur, there is a wealth of sounds and traditions to explore.

The oud is perhaps the most iconic instrument of Middle Eastern music, and it features prominently in many different styles. This stringed instrument has a long neck and a pear-shaped body, and it is typically played with a pick. The oud produces a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for accompanies other instruments or for playing solo melodies.

The santur is another popular instrument in Middle Eastern music, especially in Persia. This hammered dulcimer has a rectangular body with two sets of strings stretched across it. The santur is played with small mallets, and it produces a bright, chiming sound.

The ney is a type of flute that is popular in many different styles of Middle Eastern music. It is made from reeds, and it has a distinctively nasal quality to its sound. The ney is often used as an accompanying instrument, but it can also be played solo.

The dumbek is a type of drum that is commonly used in Middle Eastern music. It is typically played with the hands, and it has a deep, resonant sound. The dumbek can be used as both an accompaniment and a solo instrument.

These are just some of the instruments that you might find in Middle Eastern music. Others include the qanun (a type of zither), the riqq (a type of tambourine), and the tabla (a type of drum). With so many different sounds and traditions to explore, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Middle Eastern music.

The different styles of Middle Eastern music

The Middle East is a huge and varied region, and its music reflects that diversity. From the haunting sounds of the Sahara Desert to the lively rhythms of the Levant, there is a wealth of musical traditions to be discovered.

Here are just some of the different styles of Middle Eastern music:

Bedouin music: This style is characterized by its use of improvised instruments and its focus on oral history. Bedouin music is often passed down from generation to generation, and features complex vocal harmonies.

Saheeh: This traditional Arab music style is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. It features lively percussion and strings, and is often accompanied by dance.

Mawal: Mawal is a type of Arabic vocal improvisation that originated in the Levant region. It is often performed solo, with the singer improvising over a fixed melody.

Qasida: A Qasida is a type of Arabic poetry that is often set to music. Qasidas are traditionally sung by men, and often feature themes of love or religious devotion.

Dabke: Dabke is a traditional Arab folk dance that originating in the Levant region. It is usually performed in groups, with dancers forming a line or circle and stomping their feet in sync with the music.

The artists who popularized Middle Eastern music

Middle Eastern music has been gaining in popularity around the world in recent years. A number of artists have played a role in bringing this unique and intoxicating sound to a wider audience. Here are some of the most important names in Middle Eastern music.

Amr Diab is an Egyptian singer and songwriter who has been active since the 1980s. He is credited with popularizing the Egyptian style of music known as ‘shaabi.’ Shaabi is a genre that combines elements of traditional Egyptian folk music with modern pop sounds. Diab’s hits include ‘Nour El Ein’ and ‘Wahran Wahran.’

Nancy Ajram is a Lebanese singer who first came to prominence in the early 2000s. Ajram is known for her upbeat, pop-influenced style of music. Her hits include ‘Ya Tabtab…Wa Dallaa,’ ‘Oul Tanya Keda,’ and ‘Inta Eih?’

Fairuz is a Lebanese singer who has been active since the 1950s. She is considered one of the most important names in Arabic music, and her beautiful voice has captivated fans around the world. Fairuz’s most famous songs include ‘Fi Kunut El Hob,’ ‘Al Bostah,’ and ‘Lebanon.’

The impact of Middle Eastern music on the world

In the past few years, there has been a growing interest in Middle Eastern music in the Western world. Artists like Omar Souleyman and Hassan Hakmoun have brought the sounds of the Middle East to a wider audience, and have helped to create a new genre of music that blends traditional sounds with modern influences.

Middle Eastern music has long been a part of the global musical landscape, but in recent years it has been gaining more mainstream attention. This is due in part to the increasing popularity of world music, as well as the political climate in the region. With the Arab Spring and the rise of ISIS, there has been a renewed interest in the culture and music of the Middle East.

There are many different styles of Middle Eastern music, ranging from traditional folk songs to modern pop music. However, all Middle Eastern music share certain features, such as complex rhythms and melodies, and a emphasis on improvisation.

The impact of Middle Eastern music can be heard all over the world. In Europe, Arabic music has influenced classical composers such as Mozart and Beethoven, while in America, jazz musicians such as Duke Ellington and Miles Davis were inspired by Arab musicians who they met during their tours of Egypt and Morocco. Even today, Arab musicians are making their mark on the global music scene, with artists such as Omar Souleyman and Hassan Hakmoun bringing the sounds of the Middle East to a new generation of listeners.

The future of Middle Eastern music

The future of Middle Eastern music is looking very bright. With the rise of artists such as Omar Suleiman, Hassan Shakur, and Ziad Rahbani, the genre is evolving and expanding its reach. These artists are taking traditional sounds and blending them with modern influences to create a new and exciting sound that is resonate with audiences all over the world.

Why you should listen to Middle Eastern music

If you’re looking for something new to listen to, why not explore the sounds of the Middle East? Middle Eastern music has a rich history and diverse range of styles, from the traditional Arabic music of Morocco to the modern pop sounds of Lebanon. Here are some of the reasons why you should give Middle Eastern music a try.

1. It’s incredibly diverse.
2. It’s full of rich history and culture.
3. It can be incredibly moving and emotional.
4. It’s great for dancing.
5. It’s perfect for relaxing or energizing yourself.
6. It’s easy to find online or in stores.
7. You can find music for any occasion.