Advertisement Close

From Medina to Mainstream: How Classic Arab Pop Hits Found a Home in the Global House Music Scene

posted on: Feb 5, 2025

Keinemusik Festival at The Pyramids. Credit:Keinemusik

By: Nissrine Bedda / Arab America Contributing Writer

From the pyramids of Cairo to the festivals of Berlin, iconic 2000s Arab pop hits are making a major comeback on the global music scene. This time, though, there’s a twist: techno and house artists are blending these smooth melodies with the lively rhythms of Arabic drums and bagpipes. The result is a unique fusion that captivates audiences and strengthens the connection to Arab identity.

Keinemusik Takes Over Egypt

It all started in 2024 with the surge of music festivals like Keinemusik, a German electronic music event that united top global producers. The festival’s defining moment came when it made history with its debut at the iconic Giza Pyramids in Egypt. The 2.5-hour performance featured an incredible lineup of DJs and showcased tracks like El Youm El Helw Dah and Allah, Allah, Ya Baba. The set was a thrilling fusion of Arabic percussion and unexpected bagpipe drops, igniting the crowd and getting everyone on their feet to dance.


Peggy Gou in Marrakech

In the summer of 2023, the Lost Nomads festival took place in Agafay, Marrakech—an up-and-coming hotspot for both Moroccan tourism and the younger local crowd. Morocco opened its doors to thousands of visitors for this global event, where South Korean DJ and producer Peggy Gou stole the spotlight. Known for her iconic track Na Na Na Na, she electrified the crowd with her infectious energy. Paying homage to Moroccan culture, Peggy rocked a Fez hat throughout her set and even invited a Gnawa group, hailing from southern Morocco, to join her on stage. The collaboration blended traditional Gnawa rhythms, including the use of castanets and tabla, with her signature house beats, creating a unique fusion that brought the best of both worlds to life.

Peggy Gou in Agafay, Marrakech

Arabic Beats in Western Nightlife

It’s no longer surprising to see a blend of cultures coming together in one room, vibing together to the same mixes of DJs from across the US who’ve expertly mixed tracks by Amr Diab, Nancy Ajram, Myriam Fares, and others. From Latin clubs to American nightlife, and even trending on TikTok, Arabic music has truly made its mark across all types of media. The way these diverse communities are embracing and streaming our music sparks conversations and fosters new connections. Music, after all, is powerful.

Thanks to Arab American DJs like DJ Habibeats, the songs we grew up with are being reimagined through genres like house and techno, which are on the rise. This means we’re not only part of the conversation but also shaping new trends. Without the creativity and passion of our own community members, who knows where we’d fit into the broader cultural landscape? But one thing’s for sure—we always find a way to reconnect with our roots.

Saint Levant | Boiler Room: DC

In times of uncertainty, as we watch our Palestinian brothers and sisters endure a mass genocide while much of the world turns a blind eye, we see how music has the power to unite global citizens. Even when forces try to tear us apart, our people find strength in coming together, drawing on the familiar beats and lyrics that once united us. These sounds bring back the nostalgia of our shared upbringing, while new allies join us in appreciating our heritage and sharing our stories. Music becomes a bridge, a reminder that even in the darkest times, we are never truly alone.

Check out our blog!