The Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG) and renowned music media brand Billboard have joined forces to introduce Billboard Arabia, a groundbreaking platform designed to showcase and celebrate artists of Arab heritage on the global music scene.
Billboard Arabia aims to become the ultimate destination for artists with Arab roots, offering a hub for the latest releases, reviews, interviews, exclusive event coverage, and original photography. Additionally, the platform will feature special video content from acclaimed artists, both regionally and internationally, according to a press statement by SRMG.
In the coming year, Billboard Arabia will launch multiple music charts that incorporate data from top digital streaming platforms such as Spotify, Anghami, and YouTube. These charts will highlight the artists and songs shaping the global and regional music industry.
Moreover, Billboard Arabia will host the highly anticipated Billboard Arabia Music Awards, live concerts, activations, and both regional and international events to celebrate artists from diverse music genres who inspire innovation within the industry.
The MENA region has been recognized by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry as the fastest-growing music region in the world. In 2022 alone, several up-and-coming Arab artists achieved over 1 billion streams, underscoring the tremendous potential of the music market in the region.
Jomana R. Al-Rashid, CEO of SRMG, emphasized the need for a dedicated platform to shine a spotlight on Arab artists driving innovation in the global music industry. She stated, “Our partnership with Billboard will help fill that void in the market.”
Al-Rashid added, “Billboard Arabia is more than just a digital platform. It will serve as the premier destination to celebrate the Arab music community and empower the business of music through data-driven charts, live concerts, and awards.”
Mike Van, president of Billboard, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with SRMG to launch Billboard Arabia. Billboard has a strong legacy of recognizing and promoting artists across different genres, languages, and cultures, with the mission of sharing the power of music with new fans worldwide. By leveraging SRMG’s regional reach and access, coupled with our experience, we will ensure that artists with Arab roots are heard and appreciated on a global scale.”
The announcement of Billboard Arabia took place at the SRMG Beach during the prestigious Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. As part of the event, several MENA artists showcased the diverse sounds from the region through captivating performances.
To connect with audiences worldwide, Billboard Arabia is now active on various social media platforms, including Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Music enthusiasts and fans of Arab talent can engage with the platform and experience the vibrant music scene firsthand.
With the launch of Billboard Arabia, Arab artists are set to receive the recognition they deserve on the international stage, while fostering cross-cultural appreciation and paving the way for a dynamic and inclusive music industry.
Helin.N