(Sub)Culture
For Iraqis, The Rise Of “Shaabi” Music On TikTok Drives Diasporic And Generational Divides
As Iraqi “shaabi” music goes viral on TikTok, its relationship with local and diaspora Iraqis comes into focus.
Exclusive
Cover Story
How Small X Became Morocco’s Most Intentional Voice in Hip-Hop
On his latest EP “NAFIDA”, the Safi-born rapper turns inward to forge an alternative grammar for hip-hop in Morocco.
Exclusive
Lebanese Artist Blu Fiefer Reflects On Five Years Since Port Of Beirut Blast
The Lebanese artist processes what this day has meant for her and for the country.
Commentary
The Deliberate Starvation In Gaza Is An Assault On Palestinian Mothers And Babies
The starvation of an entire population in Gaza will have lasting generational impacts.
MUSIC
Amid Crisis and Grief, Arab Artists Weigh Speaking Out
As Middle Eastern and North African music hits global stages, artists reflect whether it’s possible to create, grieve, and disrupt at the same time.
Exclusive
A Tribute to Ziad Rahbani: Love Letters From Those Inspired By Him
In honor of Ziad Rahbani, Rolling Stone MENA collected love letters from artists and activists inspired by the late Lebanese legend’s work.
MUSIC
Ziad Rahbani, Legendary Lebanese Composer, Playwright, And Satirist, Dead At 69
The legendary Lebanese composer, playwright, and satirist died today at the age of 69.
TV & MOVIES
Is The New ‘Superman’ Movie About Palestine?
Audiences have pointed out some subtle and not-so-subtle allusions between the Man of Steel film and what’s actually happening in Gaza.
FEATURES
Diaspora Dance Spaces Provide Healing in Times of Grief. For Some, They Also Raise Questions.
A growing global MENA party scene has become a vital space for some diaspora to find community and solidarity, even as it draws scrutiny over its political role.
(Sub)Culture
Maktaba is the Canadian Oasis for Arab Culture, Community, and Imagination
Sundus Abdul Hadi and Yassin Alsalman, the founders of the independent bookstore in Montreal, seek to preserve literature, music, and community.
MUSIC
The Soft Rebellion of Donia Wael, Egypt’s Indie Sweetheart
The singer-songwriter dishes on her latest EP and creating music with an all-women band.
MUSIC
Benny Adam Turned a Moroccan Folk Staple Into A Viral Sensation. He’s Just Getting Started.
The Moroccan artist talks about his hit song “Mok Ya Mok” and bridging diasporic identity through music.
