The Kuwaiti music scene is buzzing with creativity, whether it be in the realm of hip-hop, jazz, rock, or dance music. Over the course of this past decade, a new generation of trailblazing talent has emerged in Kuwait – setting themselves apart by honouring their unique sounds which seamlessly coalesce the traditional and the contemporary into culturally transformative records. Cosmo ME would like to show 5 Kuwaiti music artists in particular some love today.
Kuwaiti music artists to add to your playlist
Sons of Yusuf
Via @sonsofyusuf on Instagram
Kuwaiti siblings siblings Yakoob and Abdul Rahman Al Refaie rose to stardom following the release of their exceptional hip-hop track Hala. Tyrese Gibson himself can attest to the dynamic duo’s exceptional sound, describing their Khaleeji remix of Wiz Khalifa’s We Dem Boyz as “Arabhop.” Having performed at various festivals such as the Mother of the Nation Festival at Abu Dhabi, Son of Yusuf have truly established themselves as cultural icons in the region. The Kuwaiti brothers have also launched a music production company, The Base, seeking to foster emerging talent in the Arab world.
Taymour Khajah
Via @taymourkhajah on Instagram
This multitalented instrumentalist, composer, and producer from Kuwait developed an affinity for music at the tender age of 13. After embarking on culturally expansive expeditions across the globe, the artist honed in on his unique sound which sonically coalesces the East and the West.
Fatima Al Qadiri
Yesterday was the screening of Mati Diop’s Atlantique film at Cannes, and my first score for a feature. Thank you to @Mugler for the dream cream suit & red carpet look! pic.twitter.com/Z6PGLbcJMw
— Fatima Al Qadiri (@FatimaAlQadiri) May 17, 2019
This Kuwait-bred musician, conceptual artist, composer, and producer masterfully alchemises themes of war, nostalgia, and identity among others into her exceptionally crafted Electronic/Dance records. The internationally cultured artist has resided in Berlin, Germany and New York.
Abdullah Trill
Via @abdullahtrill on Instagram
The beloved hip-hop artist has taken the Arab world by storm with his eclectic and captivating hits, including Passion, Alpha, and Allah Wakelik.
Zahed Sultan
Based in London, the exceptional Kuwaiti-Indian multimedia artist has consistently showcased his passion for social justice, technology, and culture across a wide variety of artistic creations including music and film. Particularly celebrated for his signature live audio-visual-dance performances, with which he has electrified audiences across the globe, the award-winning artist defines what it means to be a trailblazer.
Via @zahedsultan on Instagram
Lead image courtesy of @sonsofyusuf