“Deira” is a new song and video collaboration between artists Saint Levant and MC Abdul, released following Levant’s recent signing to Universal Arabic Music (UAM). The song celebrates Palestinian culture and heritage through its lyrics and visuals.
Saint Levant, a multi-talented artist of Palestinian, Algerian, French, and Serbian descent, joins forces with MC Abdul, a 15-year-old rapper from Gaza known for his viral hit “Palestine” in 2021, which gained global recognition.
Musical Style and Theme:
“Deira,” performed in the traditional Shaabi Arab musical style native to Algiers, is an homage to Levant’s lineage. The song’s title, translating to “the Kasbah” or “the old city,” reflects its thematic focus on daily life, food, fashion, sports, and more in the Middle East, portrayed through a dreamy and nostalgic lens in the accompanying video.
Personal Connection to Gaza:
Levant shares the poignant story behind “Deira,” recounting how the song’s title references a hotel in Gaza built by his parents and known for its architectural beauty. Tragically, the hotel was destroyed by Israeli bombing, underscoring the ongoing conflict in the region.
MC Abdul’s verse in “Deira” addresses the current conflict, expressing hope amidst adversity with poignant lines like “Big dreams, heavy nights/praying that my family can stay alive/imagine trying to fly with no wings/but I promise you the caged bird sings.”
Levant’s Career and Recent Signing:
Based in Los Angeles, Saint Levant has built a diverse catalog of music, including singles and EPs like 2023’s “From Gaza, With Love.”
His recent signing to Universal Arabic Music (UAM) signifies a significant milestone in his career, facilitated by a partnership with Republic Records and UMG initiated by Wassim “Sal” Slaiby, manager of The Weeknd.
Music Industry Growth in the Middle East:
The music industry in the Middle East has experienced notable growth, with major labels like Universal establishing imprints and local offices in the region.
Streaming platforms like Spotify and Anghami have expanded their presence, reflecting the region’s increasing significance in the global music landscape.
Industry Insights and Challenges:
Despite the region’s growth, the war in Gaza has posed challenges for Palestinian artists, disrupting opportunities for recognition and success.
However, MC Abdul’s streaming numbers surged following the conflict, indicating heightened interest in Palestinian voices amid heightened global attention.
