Tidal, the premium music streaming platform, has announced the launch of the first-ever Arab playlist for Arab Heritage Month. The playlist has been curated by Mekawi Impact, founder Dena Mekawi, a social impact agency focused on amplifying marginalized voices through partnerships & inclusive marketing strategies.
Arab Heritage Month, which takes place in April, is a month-long celebration of the contributions of Arab Americans to the fabric of American society. Tidal's Arab playlist, curated by Mekawi Impact celebrates the richness and diversity of Arab music and highlights the work of Arab artists from around the world.
The initiative for official national designation of the month was launched in 2017 by the nonprofit media and education organization Arab America Foundation and its sister organization Arab America. Mekawi Impact is proud to have been a supporter, and one of the agencies that helped push for this month to be recognized. It began with support from a few states, but gained momentum each year. National Arab American Heritage Month was recognized in April 2021 with the U.S. Department of State, some members of Congress and 37 governors issuing proclamations supporting the month, according to Arab America.
The playlist features a wide range of music genres, from traditional Arabic music to modern pop hits, and includes songs in Arabic and English. It showcases the talents of well-known Arab artists such as Amr Diab, Nancy Agram, as well as emerging artists who are making a name for themselves in the music industry.
Arab music has had a significant influence on the Western and Hip Hip music, both in terms of its musical elements and its cultural significance. Artists such as Swizz Beats mentioned to Mekawi Impact over the years his love and inspiration for legendary artists such as Oum Khaltoum. Oum Kalthoum was a legendary Egyptian singer, songwriter, and actress who is considered one of the most influential and popular Arab singers of the 20th century. Her music and style have influenced not only the Arab world but also the Western world and hip hop culture.
Oum Kalthoum's timeless music and unique style have had a profound impact on the world of music and continue to inspire and influence artists from all over the world.
“We are thrilled to partner with Mekawi Impact, as a way to honor and highlight Arab Heritage Month, Dena Mekawi - CEO and Shantel Johnson, Creative Director of Mekawi Impact, to launch the first-ever Arab playlist for Arab Heritage Month, creating a curated playlist of Arab and MENA artists, and artists who have been inspired by Arab Music.” said Bjorn Hammershaug, Senior Director, Global Curation. Tidal has always been committed to amplifying diverse voices and supporting artists from around the world, and we are proud to celebrate Arab culture and music with this playlist."
Dena Mekawi, founder of Mekawi Impact, the curator of the Arab playlist, said, "As an Arab American, I am honored to have the opportunity curating this playlist for Tidal. Music has the power to bring people together, and I hope this playlist will help showcase the incredible talent and diversity of Arab artists, helping to promote understanding and appreciation of the Arab culture. This is just the start to bring to the forefront the vibrant talents of the Arab world, while blending two worlds through music.”
The Arab playlist is available exclusively on Tidal throughout the month of April. Tidal is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the music industry and will continue to celebrate the contributions of artists from around the world.
Playlist Link: https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/0e1f90c0-1213-4d3e-9019-a824e36fb32e
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Cover Art by: @AngieAssal, @soundofmazzika