XP Music Futures: Revolutionizing the MENA Music Scene
The fourth iteration of XP Music Futures, the pioneering music conference hosted by MDLBEAST, wrapped up its three-day event in Riyadh’s vibrant JAX District, solidifying its role as a transformative influence in the MENA music and creative sectors. Held over the weekend, XP Music Futures provided an unparalleled blend of cultural exchange, education, industry innovation, and knowledge sharing, featuring over 200 speakers and 150 artists spanning a diverse range of genres, from Afrobeat and techno to heavy metal and hip-hop.
A New Paradigm for Music Conferences
XP Music Futures transcends the typical music conference model. It serves as a platform that reimagines how the MENA region interacts with global music culture, providing a groundbreaking industry program that cultivates talent, empowers emerging leaders, and encourages collaboration across creative industries. At its core, XP is a venue where rising talents converge with industry veterans, dismantling barriers and facilitating a flourishing and interconnected music scene in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Ramadan Alharatani, CEO of MDLBEAST, encapsulated the essence of this year’s event: “XP is about more than music – it’s about creating a thriving cultural and economic ecosystem. The potential in this region is limitless, and XP is here to provide the tools and connections for young people to achieve their dreams. This year showed us just how much we can achieve together.”
Empowering Future Creatives and Breaking Barriers
XP Music Futures has established itself as the connective tissue of the MENA creative community, offering resources and opportunities for aspiring professionals to enter the music industry. With artist development initiatives and a comprehensive array of educational programs, including diplomas and practical workshops, XP aims to inspire and equip the next generation of industry leaders. This year’s sessions featured international experts, fostering valuable knowledge exchanges between global executives and local talent.
Highlights included:
· David Guetta’s Production Masterclass, where the international superstar shared his “20-year rule” for crafting chart-topping hits that marry nostalgia with modern flair.
· The Evolution of Rock and Metal in the Arab World, spotlighting Saudi Arabia’s first-ever heavy metal band and celebrating the region’s emerging metal scene through panels and live performances.
· Rocking the Runway: The Power of Music in Fashion, a dynamic panel featuring footballer and style icon Mo Adams alongside Saudi creatives, exploring how music enhances storytelling in fashion and fosters cross-cultural collaborations between the MENA region and the West.
· The New Blueprint: Egyptian hip-hop sensation Marwan Moussa shared insights on redefining regional hip-hop and pushing artistic boundaries.
· Rhymes and Dreams: Rapper Bas from Dreamville Records inspired attendees with his story of determination and creativity.
· Backtrack with Don Cannon: A hands-on workshop where the legendary producer revisited the biggest hits of his career, dissecting the craft behind his achievements.
· Fireside Chat with Kiko Loureiro: The global metal icon shared decades of experience with Megadeth and Angra, offering unique insights into breaking barriers in heavy metal.
XP also showcased notable programming such as “Introducing the Grammys to Saudi Arabia”, led by the Saudi Music Commission, marking a significant step in connecting the local music ecosystem with international standards of excellence.
Cultural Fusion and Creative Innovation
XP Music Futures continues to celebrate the rich diversity of the MENA region by merging global and local influences. The MJLS x NOORstudios showcase exemplified this mission, bringing together women-owned creative hubs from the U.S. and Egypt to curate an international soundstage. This cross-cultural partnership bridged the gap between the MENA creative scene and the global diaspora, inspiring new artistic collaborations.
An additional highlight was Warner Music’s showcase, celebrating the global ascent of African music with engaging discussions and performances by Wizard Chan, Kold AF, and Joeboy. These artists underscored the increasing presence of African music in Saudi Arabia and its impact on global pop culture. Through such showcases, XP Music Futures amplifies artists’ voices while nurturing creative synergies that drive innovation and elevate the region on the international stage.
XP NITE: The Pulse of Saudi Arabia After Dark
As night descended, XP NITE transformed the JAX district into a hub of underground energy, showcasing both local and global talents across six stages. Highlights included performances by MAHOOL and Brij Entertainment, spotlighting innovative Saudi hip-hop, R&B, and local sounds. A diverse lineup showcased electrifying sets from Heavy Arabia, Saudi Arabia’s first heavy metal promotion company, and HIPEX L’ART, a collaboration that fuses Afrobeats with the burgeoning Saudi music scene.
Building a Sustainable Future in Music
Looking toward the future, XP Music Futures is establishing the foundation for a sustainable music ecosystem in the region. Through initiatives like the MDLBEAST Foundation’s AMB program, XP creates exchange opportunities for emerging professionals to collaborate with international partners, including artist management agencies, booking firms, and record labels.
By fostering collaboration, challenging conventions, and celebrating authenticity, XP is paving the way for a vibrant, globally connected music ecosystem. These initiatives empower artists and industry leaders with the tools necessary to achieve global success while remaining true to their roots.
The Path to SOUNDSTORM 2024
XP Music Futures lays the groundwork for SOUNDSTORM, the largest music festival in the region, returning to Riyadh from December 12 to 14 with an impressive lineup of global superstars and local talent.
As a beacon of creativity and cultural dialogue, XP Music Futures continues to elevate the voices of the MENA region, showcasing its immense potential on the global stage.
