Hip-hop is more than just beats with words, but rather a way of life and a tool of expression. Unfortunately, hip-hop is a culture that is misunderstood due to the ill-conceived perceptions proliferated by the mass media.
However recently this music genre is starting to reach a level of maturity and “realness” in the Arab world. Arab hip-hop artists do not need to rely on the West for themes and topics to express in their music releases, as we have plenty of social and political issues developing in our region that deserve to be discussed and voiced.
Jeddah FAM AKA J-FAM, a local hip-hop based group just released a music video entitled “Etab Arabi” which means “Arabic Reproach” in an attempt to open a channel of discourse concerning the latest developments and charged political atmosphere in the region. Hip-hop is the outlet this group has chosen to express their opinions and discuss what is happening, in an authentic and genuine manner.
Jeddah Fam is represented by Ali Bash, Timba and Black Drama. Their new release also featured local hip-hop artist Kabo and the talented Sajeer Tliha directed the video of their new song.
Arab News sat down with the members of the group and had the below discussion about their new release and hip-hop music:
Arab News: What made you release this track now?
J-FAM: The situation that we are living in right now as Muslims and as Arabs, and our passion for music drove us to release this track; we are after all part of the community and people’s voices.
AN: What are the reasons Hip Hop in Saudi Arabia isn’t that popular? And what are the issues affecting its image?
J-FAM: There are a number of factors that had an effect on the perception of this music genre, starting from the rappers who unfortunately introduced the wrong stereotypical image of rappers into Arab countries. The so-called ‘Gangster Rap’ gave our society the wrong idea about hip-hop, which stopped people from seeing the other side and true meaning of hip-hop. We perceive rap as a reflection of true soul and we believe its expressive purpose lies in lyrical word formations and meanings. Plus we feel the music market needs to progress and grow, especially in terms of funding so that our local artists can really produce top quality music that can compete internationally.
We aspire to take the Saudi hip-hop and R&B scene to that international level; it might take time but we know it will happen. J-FAM and the many talents that exist in this country need outlets and day by day these outlets are growing. With the support of fellow artists and the people, we can make our dreams come true and set the stage for the future and the undiscovered talents.
AN: I personally enjoyed listening to your new release. What was the initial feedback from the people?
J-FAM: The feedback has been great; people like the song and are sharing it with their friends. Plus the video has had around 200 likes and 9000+ views (our most successful video to date) in five days, so alhamdullah. We are happy this track is for such an amazing cause and hope the song reaches both those who need it most and the creative minds that will help us improve and move forward.
AN: What are your thoughts on Hip Hop in the Arab World and Saudi Arabia in particular?
J-FAM: I think despite its young age in the region, hip-hop has come a long way and like all music genres there is a wide spectrum of talents. There are many up-comers and new groups discovering the possibilities of the genre, and at the same time there are many artists with a high level of maturity, who are producing top quality music tracks that can compete on the international scene.
I think that’s a healthy mix of new comers and mature artists that keeps the hip-hop scene active and evolving. Hip-hop offers a voice, an outlet, something that youth everywhere in the world need, and I think that’s why the genre will continue to grow, especially in our region.
AN: Will you be releasing an album soon?
J-FAM: Yes. Very Soon. The exact date has not been decided yet, but it will definitely be before summer 2013, God willing.
In the meantime we are working on some serious surprises (no exaggeration) that you will love! So stay tuned to our latest updates via Facebook (www.facebook.com/JeddahFam); Twitter (@JeddahFam) and YouTube (JeddahFAM).
AN: How was the past 2 years for you as a group and what do you predict for the next 2-3 years?
J-FAM: The last two years have been like a reconstruction/reinvention for us as J-FAM, laying down the right foundations and putting the groundwork, so that we can grow together both musically and as a group. We believe that in the next couple of years J-FAM will start to make some real big noise, God willing.
Checkout the group’s new song
“Arab Reproach” on the below link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIJAJp8dNeY
