In Bad Taste
Why Column? Why Opinion? Why Bite?
Why cultural writing lost its bite, and why criticism with teeth still matters. Introducing Rolling Stone MENA’s new column: In Bad Taste.
MUSIC
Silent Shifts
Souad Massi’s ‘Samt’ Bridges Tradition and Modernity
With “Samt,” Souad Massi leans into a fresher, groovier sound while preserving the intimacy and depth that define her artistry.
Cultural Bridge
Arabiano: 5 Iconic Performances by African Artists on Arab Stages
From Burna Boy to Tyla, five performances that chart the deepening musical exchange between Africa and the Arab world.
Sole Searching
The Music We’re Looking Forward to Hearing At Dubai’s Sole DXB
Rolling Stone MENA’s top recommended musical performances to catch at this year’s Sole DXB in Dubai.
Remembering Rim
Lullabies of Resistance: Remembering Rim Banna
Maram Khenissi remembers Rim Banna on her 59th birthday and celebrates her defiant legacy of sound, resistance and memory.
2025 Ranked
The 75 Best Arabic Songs of 2025
75 tracks that shaped Arab music in 2025, from soft mahraganat and indie pop to political rap and Moroccan grunge.
TYLA CRASH COURSE
8 Tyla Songs You Need to Know Before Her Bahrain Debut
Eight key tracks to explore Tyla’s popiano sound ahead of her Bahrain debut, from global hits to understated deep cuts.
XP XPLORED
Here’s What to Attend at XP Music Futures This Week
Rolling Stone MENA’s top recommended sessions and showcases to catch at this year’s XP Music Futures in Riyadh.
Popiano Takeover
Is Popiano the Next African Wave? Ask Tyla
Exploring Tyla’s popiano wave – the Southern African sound transforming global pop – as she makes her Bahrain live debut.
Zagazig’s Green Day
‘Lebs El Habayza’: Vemto’s Punk Take on Society & Teenage Life
Vemto release ‘Lebs El Habayza,’ a punk track exploring teenage identity, self-expression, and social judgment in Zagazig.
Distinct Instinct
Maryam Saleh Ushers New Sound in Comeback Single ‘El Fetra’
Maryam Saleh returns with “El Fetra,” a hypnotic new single exploring instinct, identity, and a sonic shift ahead of her album Syrr.
Beyond Borders
Beirut & Beyond Returns With Cross-Regional Lineup and Industry Track
Beirut & Beyond returns to Metro Al Madina with a cross-regional lineup and expanded professional program spotlighting independent music.
