The Hit Show "The Voice" Gets The Arab Version

or maybe it's the Lebanese version. What has been done right so far, is the judges, the management has picked 4 awesome names in Arabic music who truly can sing and have a reputation for their strong voices and their musical knowledge.  AS far as the business is concerned, the intellectual property rights of the show belong to Talpa Holding, while Sony Pictures Television (STP) Arabia- representing Talpa formats in the region - is the co-production company.

This American show is now landing in Arabia and the masses are unsure what to make of another show that will waste more of people's time to pick talents who might never make it in this world again. MBC is hosting the show in the same format, 4 judges, they hear the voice, not see the person singing and then make their call. The person who likes the voice will be a mentor for the guest.

They already had a press conference about it and people are starting to talk about this high caliber show with big names like of Assi Hallani (Lebanon), Kathem Al Saher (Iraq), Sherine (Egypt) and Saber El Robaei (Tunisia). I would not watch the show, but I will follow its news.

Following the exclusive rights to broadcast the international TV show 'The Voice' in the MENA region on MBC1, MBC Group revealed the four star “coaches” of the show:

Kadim Al Sahir, Sherine Abdel Wahab, Saber Al Roba’ei and Assi El Hellani. The program will be hosted by Egyptian actor Mohamed Karim. This is a sing of the great recession that Arabic music have been seeing since the Arab Spring started.


  #MBC1- The Voice

3 Minutes With Karim Saleh This Ramadan

Mr. Arab Idols Kareem Saleh is back this Ramadan with what seems very personal sound tracks of his supplications which he dedicated to his father's soul. Three supplication videos in under 4 minutes. He had a believer of me with his warm voice and heart-filled prayer.

I have also came to enjoy the nature scenes that tend to come with such prayer sound tracks. Kareem is the vocals behind this track and he has also composed the minimalist music we hear. I must say good job Kimo.

كريم صالح - ازاي انا


كريم صالح - ضعيف


كريم صالح - يارب

Humam Iraqi Young Gun Of Pop - "Shawkt Alagek"

Humam first studied music in Iraq music institute. Then he joined a folklore group there too, then joined another one and toured representing Iraqi folklore all over the map. And when he wanted to be himself, he took part of a talent content show in Lebanon "Star Club", he one the first spot.

Then Rotana picked up him for a contract and he has been recording under their label. He filmed one music video, then another all in Lebanese which brought him more name recognition, then he did a song for Iraq. He released two albums so far and works on his music by releasing singles. His composer of choice is another young Iraqi Walid Al Chami who is considered one of the top Iraqi composers and music producers.

I like Iraqi music, the passion is done right, and their lyrics have the beauty and poetry of the Gulf and the accessibility of Lebanese and Egyptian songs. Humam walks a fine line and do a great job.

Humam - Shawkt Alagek | همام - شوكت الاقيك

This Ramadan The World Loves Youssef Arafat

 Yousef Arafat, the nice guy who almost won Arab Idol title a year ago is making a run for his career with a song for Islam. A song that no two will disagree on...the song is about beauty of Islam. A great choice form this Jordanian super awesome dude.

While most would chose a song about romance to kick off their career in the post TV fame on Arab Idol, Yousef chose Ramadan to launch his career and he soinds very different than I remember it. I like this choice, I am sure the most conservative and lightest ones would cheer his choice. So Yousef is back to make this very hot Ramadan a bit more tolerable.

I like the behind the secnes footage of the young artist. I am sure it was a lot easier to make this song than other ones. Too many studios would welcome such a song, but romance gets no love as there are over saturation at the moment. He was Mr. nice guy and all the judges enjoyed having him part of the show. While Arafat got his name out there on Arab Idol, he now chooses to praise the religion that came to destroy all idols.

 Youssef Arafat Din elsalam mpg 4

In Soula, Assala Nasri Gets Cozy With Other Singers

Soula is the name of the show where Syrian (she is also Bahraini, Egyptian, Palestinian and American too) singer Assala Nasri invites guests to her home. Other singers and clebrites are also welcome, but the fromat is in a studio inside Assalah's home.

A cozy atmosphere where singers can relax and jam with Assalah, They talk, they ask questions and sometimes answer them. But Assala is the star of this format, she has a strong personality and always have something to say. She is also in an age where she can relate to most of the singers she hosts. A singer kicks off a song and the rest plays chorus

I think the guests might get a small payment, and those who are too big, might just do it as a favor. I think this is cool idea--it;s not entirely new, but it does bring a number of voices from all over the map and have them sing together. I like the video below, where you get three male singers and one super super sweet gal that goes by the name Suma.

Soula With Adam - Soma - loai - Ahmed Saad (3-5)

I Love When Stars Fake It By Acting Surprised

Egyptian singer who looks like a club bouncer Khaled Selim and Sarah they girl that seems to never quit were guests of Tratata, a talk show that brings a pair of Arab entertainers and have them sing in duets and talk about their work.

I like both stars, but I did not like the fake look at least Sarah had when she was asked to sing something in English, this was not just a moment that came out of the blue....they always talk about these things ahead of time.

Again, both stars have stellar voices that which made them a great couple to do a cover of the all too famous Whitney Houston song "I Will Always Love You

Khaled Selim & Sarah I WILL ALWAYS LOVE U/خالد سليم وساره الهاني

The Good Son: Ahmed El Haggar To Release A Debut Album

Like father like son is creeping into the music business now. Ahmed El Haggar is the son of celebrated and iconic Egyptian singer Ali El Haggar just singed a contract to work with a new music label. They will release his debut album. I have known about Ahmed singing more than 2 years ago when I saw him in a performance alongside his old man

Ahmed performed with his father on a number of occasions and he seemed to make waves where he goes. He can sing really well and has a different set of vocals that can hold a note. Ahmed who has his fathers look, has also taken the singing talent form his father who has helped shape Egyptian culture.

The company sate with him for an interview, and they just have posted few of his songs performed live by the young singer and a lute player. I can say that the guy knows how to impress, his choice of songs is the kind that salons used to play, the deep East bound music that requires a serious listener. This is a good start, but ultimately, pop lords will have the singer knocking.

Ahmed El Haggar - Eh Enkatably


أحمد الحجار - أنا والليل Ahmed El Haggar - Ana Wo El Leil


أحمد الحجار - ايه انكتبلى Ahmed El Haggar - Eh Enkatably

Girls Tales by Nancy Ajram نانسي عجرم - أغنية سكك البنات من مسلسل حكايات البنات

This Ramadan there,s a show that will take everyone by storm, a lighthearted comedy about being a girl. Who knows best than Nancy Ajram, a young singer who made it big when she was younger than 20, she is the mother of two girls and the daughter of a strong and young at hear woman.

Nancy has made it cool to be a girl, perhaps less awkward maybe. The spunky years are important and it seems Nancy is happy to always be a young girl in the inside and outside. That's why she was the voice for the new comedy about girls. She has sang the main song for the show and so far it seems to be a great choice.

People now want to tune in to this show as the great Nancy who is a Huge star and has the highest likability rating in Arabic pop. I might not like the show because it seems to be going for "Friends" or any other American show. It seems to be about being a city girl who likes to think she is modern and stuff. The sad part, it was a guy who wrote the lyrics, not a woman. As far as we can tell the lyricist likes women too. 

But as for the song, its spot on cute, and accurate too. So take notes guys, do not screw up and if you do, there's a right way to handle it and a wrong one...Nancy Ajram will show you the way. 

نانسي عجرم - أغنية سكك البنات من مسلسل حكايات البنات 

اغنية نانسى عجرم - سكك البنات | Check Out Nancy Ajram - Sekak El Banat

The cute song of this season is out and it has one name on it, Nancy Ajram gave her seal to yet another song that will make gold by being a golden pop song. A cute song about being a girl and being excited about getting flowers and small gifts.

The music is happy and will bring you to the dance floor....take note everyone, here's how you make a good pop song. It just radiates happiness, joy and young romance. People always like that because it reminds them of the time of their innocent days and the time when lie was simple.

Nancy manages to bring songs that express so well that time and her voice is the best fit for good nature songs about the youthfulness of that neverland. This is the song is the song a girl would play as she looks into the mirror and dances away as she styles her hair. The song might be ideal for the young souls, but the message is fit for all females.

اغنية نانسى عجرم - سكك البنات 

Rubi: The Arab's Awesome Response To Turkish Soap Operas

Ruby or Roubi is an Egyptian Lebanese production with dozens of episodes. This is the first serious Arabic production that wants to reclaim TV dramas after those dubbed Turkish shows made millions on Arab networks. Egyptian, Syrian and Lebanese nationals worked on this show to being it in a fine light. 95 episodes. The show came the Lebanese dialect, making it a real alternative to the more common Egyptian one.  So they picked an exotic looking Lebanese singer/actress Cyrine Abdel Nour. And then we learned aside for dashing looks, Cyrine is a top talent.

the show is about rich people caught in conflicted emotions and tough choices. Two other things needed to give a worthy response to Turkish Dramas, exotic locations with natural scenes. And amazing outfits that makes people want to do wonders to purchase such wardrobe. The show ended with the lead getting a divorce from her husband and also leaving her love interest. Needless to say all the three leads were played by gorgeous people.

This work has been adapted from a world famous Mexican soap opera and made fit for the Arab world.

So as the show warped up, there was a surprise song voiced by the winner of the Arab Star Academy latest season. The song is about not being understood. While I did not follow the show, I know well that the show was a big hit with the public and was a healthy response to the invasion of those Turkish dramas.

كليب نسمة لأغنية لازم تتغير في مسلسل روبي لازم تتغير نسمة محجوب مسلسل روبي جودة عالية

سيناريو وحوار كلوديا مرشليان، إخراج رامي حنَّا، وبطولة سيرين عبدالنور، مكسيم خليل، أمير كرارة، ديامان بوعبود، تقلا شمعون، فادي إبراهيم، أسعد حطاب، شادي حدَّاد، بياريت القطريب

Said El Marouk And Maya Diab To Make Sexy Clips

There's a new pop diva in Lebanon, and her name is Maya Diab. Think of her as the dark horse of Arabic pop who dances, sings and show more skin than most would. She has at least two different TV shows, and now she is hot for concerts where she open for other acts.

The news story reads, she is to released three singles and collaborate with one of the boldest--some can say kinkiest music video directors in Lebanon. Maya has been know for her sexy legs and babe personality. Few years ago she was just a cool chick on TV, now it seems she is building an empire. Well whatever it takes to keep those dollars rolling in.

Just see how she dances and the dudes seem to dig it. I think she should stick to pop and sexy stuff and leave the classics untouched by her.

مايا دياب تتعاون مع الماروق وتطلق ثلاث أغانٍ جديدةٍ

Sofia Al Marikh 2012 Album ألبوم صوفيا مريخ - تهواك

Call her the butterfly of Arabic pop, she is certainly one of the better known voices in Morocco. Sofia is one of those super sensitive souls who manes to recreate all those sensitivities though her voice and her music. With her sweet and gooey style, the sky is the limit. Sofia came to fame when she appeared on Star academy and sang in three languages so beautifully.

So her new album is out, and she is doing half English songs and half Arabic ones, they are very romantic songs and she seems to have made all the right calls. This time she comes back with the help of Jermaine Jackson. This is a dreamy album the kind every girl is raised believing in. Just believe in imagination and romance and remember good things happen to those who take a chance. If the duets on this album do not move you from the inside, I do not know if anything else can. Sofia has three duets, and the are AMAZING

Sofia's talented was noticed beyond the Arab world which explains her duo with Jermaine Jackson, brother of Michael Jackson, dedicated for Barry White. Together they collaborated on "My First, My Last, My Everything". The song is in the new album. I just think it was marketed poorly. The cover songs in the album are worthy of this songstress' stunning career.

Update: according to one comment on the blog, this is not an official release album, but an assortment curated by a fan.

01.Just A Kiss
02.Rgali Halmarra
03.Ah Quoi Bon
04.Someone Like You
05.My First (Feat. Jermaine Jackson)
06.Tahwak
07.Lalla Lemouna
08.My First (English Version)
09.Allah Yenser Seddna
10.Man In The Mirror
Man in the Mirror - Sofia Marikh - Cover Song 05


Just a Kiss - Sofia Marikh - Cover Song 04

Stupid Arab Media Elite Glamourize Bedouin Life

See the video below for Myriam Fares dances in the desert among tents. I am a proud Arab but I cannot take the portrayal of Bedouins in Arab media. They make it look like one hell of lifestyle. Bedouin life is not a choice, it was born out of necessity. The moment, they had money, they abandoned this life style and moved into one of those tall buildings.

Sure, the dreses they use here are nice, but they look like nothing the Badu or Bedouins in the desert would wear. I gues keping it real. This clip was part of a dancer show, the song is a very popular title Ya Saria, an old Arab poetry meme that appears in more than one work. So it took a Lebanese entertainer who vacations in Miamia to tell us how Bedouin really live.

I know that life in the desert is not about glamour, dances and good looking people. I have seen it from up and close. Myriam loves the Gulf money, and thus she had to do something to stand from the pack. She is a talented dancer no doubt and she used to make good choices in songs, but few are listening now.

 Myriam Fares Ya Saria

Sherihan شريهان The One And The Only!

Last year, big news were made out of entertainer Sherihan's visit to Tahrir, she camped out with the protesters and stood against the regime. This was big news because Sherihan now shuns the news and keeps to her private life.  Here's something about this true legend.

Sherihan is a natural born actor and dancer, she was the queen of the show business. She has appeared in scores of movies, but her fame was built on one thing....her her starring and fascinating role in the Fawazeer. This show is like a quick show with dances and glamour. She did that, she introduced the Arab world to this show. Her energy on camera brings life and smiles to far too many people

As a young girl she was a ballet dancer. She also did theater at a young age and made name for herself. She came to fame in the height of the disco era Her first movie role was in 1978 and her last film was in 2001, she quit the business due her illness and recover. Sherihan has been linked to Ala'a Mubarak, the song of former president Mubarak. Reumors spoke that he damaged her career once she refused to be with him.

Two decades later and no other female star has manged to take on the roles Sherihan used to play on TV. As of two days ago, she has given an interview that was well received by many of her fans.

 شهريهان تالق فى الفن الاستعراضى

Vintage Videos: Najwa Karam Folklore 1986

People who know what Mawal is, tend to enjoy life. It's essentially a showcase of a singer's vocals where she makes everything longer and louder without major help form music as he or she lead the song. Men and women have performed songs of this nature. The prelude for a song is often Mawal that introduces the song.

Lebanese have mastered this art and so have the Syrians. It's the one element that can show who is a real singer and who is a faker. Najwa Karam, the voice of the mount of Lebanon has perfected this art, we all know this now, but see back in 198 Najawa was nobody outside of Lebanon, she only made is big in the early 90s.

Look at this video and see that little has changed, she had the same stage mannerism now, and the same style, but she has that funny 80s look and hair. This was taken for a live performance at home with a packed hall, keep in mind, Lebanon was still dealing with the civil war.

najwa karam folklore 1986

Ahbab Family Dances, Raps And Reads Poetry

The only Arab country that has not revolted or offered serious reforms is Morocco. Now comes a band from that country that is singing about freedom, but they are also asking people to abandon politics. Call them Ahbab Family, that's the name they go by.

I like the poetry part of the show, it seems native to them. There are raps and English songs part of their showcase. I can tell the in house audience loved it. I love the flow and the urban dance bit. It looks like they wanted to make a show where all Arabs can enjoy..the traditionalist and the hip ones.

While their show was cool, they seemed to have filed to impress the judges. Never mind, these guys seem to ignite a great deal of Moroccans all around the world. Arabs Got Talent did do one thing right, they allowed most Arabs to see how talented young Moroccans are.

 Arab Got Talent - S2 - semi final AHBAB Family HD فرقة أحباب

The Awkward Rendition of The Lebanese National Anthem

Assi Hallani thinks he is a hero, a knight, a leader and a fighter. But above all he loves his homeland Lebanon and adores its army. Now Assi is a smart business guy, he has managed to survive in today's crowded music scene. In one of his million appearance for an interview on a Cleanser TV, he broke into character and started singing and humming the Lebanese national anthem.

Assi made it awkward as he broke into the anthem sitting down, only seconds later, he stood up and confused the TV present who played along with this unprovoked rendition...like he has gotten himself the holy spirit. What's intersting though, how simmilar all Arab national anthems are, I do appreciate the Lebanese anthem as it does not speak of a certain leader or king...just the country that we all agree to love and honor.
عاصي الحلاني يغني النشيد الوطني اللبناني

WATCH: Qusai In Yalla Single Ft. Farah قصي - يلا

Some know Saudis to be religious than most people, but in reality is much more complicated to grasp. Take the example of Qusai aka Don Legend the Kamelion, he is a hip singer from the Kingdom. By watching his music video for Yalla, I cannot help but conclude that this guy cannot be from Saudi Arabia, just look at how many female dancers he has with him. Qusai came to fame after his appearance on Arabs Got Talent. Therefore, he filmed his music video in Lebanon.

His style is something of a new age hip hop that mixes both English and Arabic with a flow too fast for m to comprehend. But then comes Farah, the female lead with him who does not disappoint. The song is part of the Qusai's album The Inevitable Change, this is a change you can believe in. At the song has its moments and I think it's change in heart and soul of Arabic music.

The garage dance by those barrels feels expired, but the cinematography doesn't have to. I like the lyrics toward the end asking people to stop being hypocrites. "no shortcuts to your dreams" goes the song. The outfits seem to be picked in one trip the mall and mushed together for this music video. Yes, there's a famous fashion store that gave them the clothes. The graffiti is colorful and the Lebanese dancing troupe allows a frame of reference. In the scene where Qusai flees from the police, the girl tells him to hide in her car and puts him in the driver seat.  


قصي - يلا | Qusai - Yalla

Soccer And Music On Arabs Got Talent

A young Yemeni who knows well to do a thing or two with soccer balls appeared on Arab Got Talent for the second time. He really dazzled them with his flexibility, moves and attitude. I like what he had to offer, Ammar Al Khodiry has confidence and seems to have won some hearts.

The judges who at least two of them do not seem to know what this talent is about as they asked him for new moves. One judge had a great deal of fun watching the moves and the tricks with the soccer ball. I do also enjoy the music they played part of the show...songs from 1999 and 2000 by two charismatic Tunisian singers.

 #ArabsGotTalent - S2 - Ep8 - عمار الخضيري

Mena Fadaly Haters Won't Go Out of Business!

Few celebrities can boast about the many hate groups that have dedicated for them. Tamer Hosny is a legend in this department. The female version of Tamer is also Egyptian and her name is Mena Fadaly. Up to 2010 she was one of the hottest actresses in the business. She is the cute and home girl spunky chick that all guys wanted to see in movies and tv shows.

Then she had an idea, why not do a birthday party for herself. Something usually would be cool and fun. But then the party has turned into a bash where Mena wore half a dozen of outfits in the evening and danced rather suggestively with a number of guests. It was men who caused the trouble for the actress and then other men took the pictures and leaked them to the press.  

If there's anything Egyptians hate is a girl trying to have fun at some dudes present and then some older guy will appear on TV and talk about the corrupt society. Mena had a nervous breakdown, appeared on many TV shoes deafening herself and then she said she will quit. She blamed the sleazy people whom she used to call friends for the scandal. Things went back to normal few months later and the whole country got busy with the Arab Spring thing.

And then few weeks ago, Mena said one more outrageous thing that opened an old wound. There are not a single man in Egypt who she likes, she said no man could impress her enough. She said she has a crush on some Turkish soap opera actor. That was something stupid to say, but Mena is releasing a song about how proud she is of being Egyptian. If you can call this is a song, you might be too drunk to tell the difference. Mena does not have any vocal talents, she can only be a cute face.

I did though enjoy the soccer clips she has incorporated in the music video.

منه فضالى مصريه انا اغنيه جديده لمصر