JEDDAH: More than 60 artists from across the world captivated audiences at UNESCO World Heritage site Al-Balad, as it was transformed into a vibrant musical haven for the Balad Beast music festival on Jan. 18 and 19.
The festival, curated by Saudi-based music and media platform MDLBEAST, featured four stages showcasing laser shows and state-of-the-art sound systems. From local acts to international sensations, the diverse lineup treated music lovers to an unforgettable experience.
Ahmad Alammary, who goes by the artist name DJ Baloo and is chief creative at MDLBEAST, told Arab News: “Everything we do is about upgrading. Last year was our first edition and we had a lot of fun with it, but, as with everything, the first time was full of lessons. So, we took those lessons and refined the overall experience, whether through connecting with local talent in terms of music or even the graphic arts displayed this year, which were very inclusive.
“We had art pieces by Saad, Golden Ratio, and Edge of Arabia displayed throughout the stages. And, in the same way, we looked at curating our music lineup much better.”
Highlighting the significance of Al-Balad, Alammary said: “It is so full of detailed history, rich culture, motifs, patterns, and textures. Every time we come here, we notice something new and transform it into something (that hasn’t ever been seen before).”
Hosting a festival in Al-Balad poses challenges due to the fragile nature of the buildings and surroundings. Alammary explained that an extensive study was conducted to ensure that the noise of the festival did not have a negative impact on the area’s architectural heritage.
This year’s Balad Beast roster included US hip-hop legends Wu-Tang Clan, Emmy-winning singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha, Egyptian alternative rockers Cairokee, French DJ and producer DJ Snake, UK rapper Russ, and US singer-songwriter Ty Dolla Sign.
The latter expressed his excitement at being part of the festival, telling Arab News: “I enjoyed performing to the crowd in this amazing place. This is unique, and we look forward to coming back again.”
Local house music DJ Azm said: “Performing at Balad Beast for the second time was an incredible experience. The festival’s commitment to showcasing local talent and creating a platform for DJs like myself is inspiring. I encourage aspiring artists to seize the opportunities that events like these offer, as they’re an incredible way to connect with audiences and make a mark in the industry.”
Jumana Abdullah, who attended both days of the festival, told Arab News: “It was truly the highlight of my year. There was such a diverse range of genres that appealed to everyone’s tastes, and the sound quality was absolutely impeccable. The festival grounds were incredibly well-organized, the crowd was so friendly, and the overall vibe was simply amazing. It was a weekend filled with non-stop dancing and pure joy. I’m already eagerly counting down the days until the next one.”