XP Music Futures, the powerhouse driving the MENA music ecosystem, proudly announces a dynamic lineup of initiatives for 2024 aimed at nurturing emerging talent, empowering industry professionals, and elevating regional music culture on a global stage. With an array of programs ranging from artist mentorship and entrepreneurial support to gender equity and immersive learning, XP Music Futures continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the MENA region and beyond.
XPERFORM: Competition Empowering Regional Talent
Launched in April, XPERFORM is a platform giving regional singing artists the chance to perform at XP Music Futures and Soundstorm and to expand their careers through opportunities with MDLBEAST Records. The initiative has introduced a panel of new judges, including Shamma Hamdan, Defencii, Hassan Abouelrouss, and Rawan Alfassi. After over 1000 applications, live auditions took place on July 6-7 at the Music Hub in Riyadh, where promising talents showcased their skills. XPERFORM not only identifies rising stars but also provides a launchpad for regional artists to reach new heights and take the next step in their careers. XPERFORM will be re-launched their mini series in October and the final episode will be recorded during SOUNDSTORM 2024 where the XPERFORM winner will perform. XPERFORM finalists of 2023 performed at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix to an audience of over 30,000 guests.
XCHANGE: Shaping the Region’s Music Conversations
Ahead of XP Music Futures, MDLBEAST launched XCHANGE workshops across key cities to address the latest challenges and trends in the region’s music industry. With successful events held in Kuwait, Tunisia and Amman this year, these workshops are instrumental in shaping the XP conference program by identifying hot topics and fostering community connections. The final workshop will be hosted at XP Music Futures from December 5-7, bringing together industry experts and enthusiasts to dive into meaningful discussions that shape the future of the MENA music scene.
HUNNA: Amplifying Female Voices in Music
HUNNA, a women-led initiative derived from the Arabic plural of “she,” is on a mission to champion and amplify female talent within the music industry. By providing essential support for both personal and professional growth, HUNNA aims to break down barriers and foster equity across the MENA music landscape. HUNNA offers its community of 100+ members opportunities for mentorship, masterclasses, gatherings and being more visible in the industry. The initiative creates a vital space for women to thrive and reshape outdated s ystems, building a more inclusive music industry. In 2024, Hunna hosted 4 listening circles, where women in the MENA music industry can connect and exchange knowledge. The group sessions run for an hour and a half, featuring a series of interactive activities and workshops for regional female talents.
Sound Futures: Investing in Innovation
Sound Futures offers aspiring musicians and innovators the opportunity to pitch groundbreaking ideas to industry investors. This “Shark Tank” style initiative seeks to secure funding and mentorship for innovative projects that can reshape the music landscape. The campaign launched in early August, with Investors and selected startups announced later in the summer. The finalists will undergo pitch training before presenting to investors live at XP Music Futures from December 5-7.
Storm Shaker: The Ultimate DJ Competition
Storm Shaker is a DJ competition inviting aspiring talents from the MENA region to showcase their craft in front of top industry figures and MDLBEAST Records representatives. Launched on August 23 with over 250 submissions, the competition’s finalists will battle it out during XP Music Futures in December, This year, the winner will go on a tour around MENA and Europe, starting with Soundstorm 2024 KSA, and then O’Beach Dubai in the UAE, EXIT Festival in Serbia, MOGA Festival in Morocco, and BSMT The Club in Tunisia,
Artist Management Bootcamp: Shaping the Next Generation of Leaders
The Artist Management Bootcamp is a two-week intensive program designed to develop the next wave of artist managers through expert-led sessions and mentorship. With applications opened in July and the program kicking off in November, participants will gain crucial industry knowledge and skills. Successful candidates will receive certification during XP Music Futures and benefit from networking opportunities and potential internships. This year, the initiative partnered with key industry leaders such as Youtube, Warner Music Middle East, Sony Music Entertainment and more.
Xine: Capturing the Pulse of Regional Music Culture
The Xine is an annual freeform publication capturing the essence of the MENA music scene through insights gathered from the XCHANGE workshops. With contributions from regional journalists, photographers, and designers, the Xine serves as a time capsule of the region’s creative energy. The 2024 edition will launch at XP Music Futures, celebrating the vibrant culture and diverse voices that drive the regional music ecosystem.
MDLBEAST’s 2024 initiatives represent a bold step forward in supporting talent, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of the music industry. As the MENA region continues to establish itself as a global music hub, MDLBEAST remains at the forefront, empowering the next generation of creators, leaders, and changemakers.
