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From the Underground to the Algorithm: How MENA Artists Are Navigating the Streaming Era
Streaming, Visibility, and the New Reality for Artists in MENA In Morocco’s crowded rap scene, artists are finding new ways to stand out—not only through their music, but through how they navigate digital platforms. One standout is Valerieblud , a rapper from the eastern city of Oujda. His emotional trap music and soft-spoken delivery have helped him rise from the underground to a growing international audience. His rise reflects a broader shift across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), where music careers are increasingly shaped by st…
Complex Expands Into the MENA Region With New Media Platform
Complex has officially entered the Middle East and North Africa with the launch of Complex MENA, marking a major step in the brand’s global expansion. The new platform is launching in partnership with ITP Media Group and is based in Dubai. The move reflects the growing influence of youth culture across the region, where music, fashion, sports, and digital creativity continue to gain global attention. Complex MENA is designed as a social-first, video-focused media platform, publishing content in both Arabic and English. Focus on Youth Culture…
U.S. Billboard Charts Drop YouTube Data in 2026: Potential Impact on Billboard Arabia and Global Markets
A Major Shift Takes Effect in How Music Success Is Measured January 16 marks a turning point for the U.S. music industry , as YouTube streaming data is officially no longer included in the U.S. Billboard charts. The change brings an end to a data relationship that spanned more than a decade and immediately alters how chart performance is calculated across the country. The decision highlights a long-simmering debate within the industry: how to fairly measure fan engagement in a streaming-dominated era. As of today, one of the world’s largest mu…
Spotlight on the Builders: Billboard Arabia's 2025 MENA Music Power Players
In a defining moment for the Middle East and North Africa's cultural landscape, Billboard Arabia unveils its exclusive new list, celebrating the visionary leaders shaping the future of Arabic music. This inaugural feature honors the industry's pivotal "power players"—the executives, companies, and creators working behind the scenes to build a modern, globally competitive music sector from the ground up. This year's Billboard Arabia list spotlights 47 influential entities driving a fundamental transformation. Behind every …
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