All This Year's Ramadan Drama Songs In One Place

Thank you for whoever published a channel on Soundcloud (Link ). Now in one place you can find all the songs from the various TV shows airing this Ramadan, some of them are by household names like Nancy Ajram and Mohammad Fouad, some by B list vocalists. Some of them are just music and no lyrics. To be honest, most of these shows are trash anyway and they all have been doing the same script. What I wish they do is more historical shows like they did five years ago. This year I do not find one appealing show. sure, there are big names like Adel Imam, Ahmed Sakka, Haifa Wehbe and others.

I do not feel there are great Ramadan songs playing over the opening/closing credits for the various TV programs. It almost feels like they are all throw away songs, meant to be forgotten. The link features more than two dozen songs from such shows. It seems Mohammad Fouad did more than one song and the same goes for Bossy.

Link
 

 

Read More

Haifa Wehbe Is "Mariam": The Holy Lady Of Pop (Video)

Wael Jassar just released his cover song for the new show by Haifa Wehbe and Khaled El Nabawy. There are tow high caliber artists whose collaboration is newsworthy. Haifa likes acting and some think she is good at it. El Nabawy has a long resume in roles both international and local ones. This looks like a love story and Haifa Wehbe always gets in trouble for playing that role.

The roles played by Haifa for this show are challenging as she will portray a twin, one of whom has lost her ability to speak. So this would be fun to watch. This is Haifa's third TV drama--only one of which has aired last year and one show still having trouble with production.   

The name of the show is Mariam, a holy lady in needs. The song is for Wael who flew into Egypt to record the themes song. I can see that this should will make the top ten list of most watched shows. I did mange to spot Egyptian singer Mohamed Kilani appearing in the show.   

Mariam Series© | أغنية مسلسل مريم© - غناء وائل جسار - فقط وحصريا على قناة النهار

Read More

Attieh Teams With Anthony Touma For Kol Leila #DWTS #Summer

Anthony Touma from Lebanon and Mohammad Attieh from Egypt got together on Dancing with the Stars where they competed for the title--each with a female dance partner. The two dudes took their relationship to the next level by doing the next logical thing. Attieh is a guy who won Super Star--Star Academy a decade ago. Anthony Touma appeared on the MBC Voice. Since both of them are singers by profession, they just released a song.

The new song is in both Arabic and English with a hint of Spanish. I like the song, it's done well and it doe not feel all over the place. These are two cool friends making a song together. Everyone brings his A game to this Arabic-English track. A nice attempt at a party song for the summer that keeps up the temperature low.

محمد عطية وانطوني توما - كل ليلة

Read More

Even Ragheb Alama Cannot Save The Doomed X Factor #MBC

Ragheb Alama And Elissa are meant to be the big names on the new and improve X Factor. While I like these two stars, I could care less about this unoriginal show that can be best descried as bland. Sure the first season was lame and saw many departures of judges who did not get along. The second season was hoping to score big with the addition of Ragheb Alama (whose presence made Arab Idol a success) and new comer to music Donia Samir Ghanem.

Still though the show did not score well, Elissa made out with couple of guys to help the rating but it did not seem o last. I like Ragheb and think he is a rock star who has survived so many things and has managed to come back with something fresh. I think there are way too many shows that do the same thing and promise young folks the stars, but leave them homeless.

See these two interviews one with Ragheb Alama and another with Elissa. They talked during the press conference to help the X Factor media blitz. Here's a declaration, I will be surprised if Ragheb renews his contract. The show is doomed from the get go, it's just boring. Donia seems to be happy to be on set alongside artists who have been singing for decades.

 

راغب علامة لـ "إيلاف": وجودي بأكس فاكتر نزولاً عند رغبة الشيخ وليد الإبرا

Elissa managed to stick around for another season, but she is not a warm soul or someone who cares for others. she seems to be stuck too much into her head....she is a diva for sure, but I do think she is out of touch. She does not seem to take well to criticism (see the interview) She is almost ready to walk out.

 إليسا لإيلاف: أنا شطورة وما بينخاف عليّ

Read More

Kareem, The Presentor of The Voice Speaks About His Gig

At first he was a beloved Egyptian actor who took challenging and indie roles, he made a great villain. This is Mohammad Kareem, the guy who is still the presenter and the host of the MBC produced The Voice, filmed in Lebanon. He was a surprise pick, but I guess he is Egyptian and that's good for marketing. This is the second season for him on the show--he has said he may not comeback. But he has also been talking about being part of an international film project, and he is promising surprises to his fans.

He seems like a nice guy, but I do not know why he is treated as a celebrity intellect. He just gave an interview, talking about the coaches and his friendship with the four of them. How hard is his job? It's not like he is doing it live, it's all pre-re recorded and things are easy....It's not just business, they look like they are great friends--I am sure when they have time.

The crew of the show have to have a level of chemistry, some drama goes a long way--I am looking at you Arab Idol.

محمد كريم: ما يجمعني بمدربي The Voice أكثر من الصداقة وانتظروا مفاجأتي كمطرب

Read More

Leave Sabine and Marco Da Silva Alone!

Dancing With the Stars is a hit show in Lebanon, to my surprise of course. But the show was able to recruit droves of celebrities to their dance floor. Sabine on the other hand is a pop star who likes to incorporate creative dance moves into her shows. But she wants to be the best in dancing, so she has chose to work with the best..... Marco Da Silva is a natural born dancer whose moves, body, expression and tattoos make him one of the most recognizable dancers nowadays.

Watch him give her some tips on curating the best dance scene. He seems to be talking about ethics, and professionalism. Marco Da Silva  is tough to work with, but Sabine really wants to give him a 100 percent. Choreographers are key to making any dance look special, but the good ones are not cheap, and they seem to have a huge ego and an eye for beauty.


.. Sabine and Marco Da Silva Announcement -اعلان سابين وماركو دا سيلفا للتدرب على الرقص.

Read More

Get Lost! Shatha Hassoun - Lost Woman New Single

Here's a little known song that was recorded to be the theme song for a TV drama. These songs tend to be about wisdom, being wronged and a broad commentary on life and people. Every artists likes those kind of songs because they come with a paycheck and they get them a lot of exposure. They help get the name out there.

This song has a cheesy title "Lost Woman" but it's far from being a cheesy woman. The show is on prime time right now. The song itself is a poem written by Sheikh Da'eej Khalifah. Enjoy Shatha's voice and bit of acting. The song's rich lyrics allow Shatha to transcend and connect with deeper and more complex emotions.  

امرأة مفقودة - شذى حسون | Shatha Hassoun - Lost Woman
 

Read More

Copying American Culture...Poorly "POP UP" @Angela_Mrad

Some Arabs are trying too hard to look and talk Western. The Saudi production company Rotana has a new program and it's about American music videos. The show is filmed in Lebanon with a host from that country. So far, this is pretty much standard.

The new program "Pop Up" is being hosted by a lady who is dressed like she was from some American ghetto in 1995. No one said this cannot make a comeback. But whatever happened to Arabic music being different? These guys are erasing the lines, and copying blindly anything they see. Americans won't like everyone being like them--this is why Iranian cinema wins with their unique and local stories.

Angela Mrad's show will talk a lot about American music videos, and what's popular in America. It's a new statement that Arabic music is either dead or lacks creativity. I think America can teach us a lot of things, but these shows only mimic the wrong things. Angela has a sense of fashion and style, no doubt....this show is a dud.

What you end up with is a product that does not have a soul nor does it have a flavor. Neither Americans will be tuning in, and very few grown ups in Arabia would care to follow. I wish the program well, and the TV host.

برنامج POP UP على روتانا موسيقى

Read More

Fine! A New Singing Competition Lands In #Lebanon "The Winner Is"

There are too many of them, and the more of them do we watch the lower our IQ gets, but who cares? As long as celebrities get big paychecks, advertisers get to sell their junk, and networks sees top rating, no body cares. The Winner Is dubs itself as a different and unique program--why not. Singers compete for a financial prize on the NBC version it's a million dollars.

I think the idea is good, most of the singers who participate on these shows go home with close to nothing in their pockets, the winner on this upcoming show--it will be airing on LBC is already rich when he walks out of the program, no need to chase producers for an album that would make them so.

Other than that, we know Amr Diab or at least his name has been floating around as someone who may or may not appearing on the show.

The Winner Is ينطلق مع النجوم العرب بفكرة جديدة ومختلفة

Read More

This Fun Show Is Worth Watching

This is kinda of a fun show. Bring an A list celebrity and make them work in some shop-in this video find Khalid Selim selling cake. Place them in a store, give them a uniform and have them do their best in fooling patrons.

It's fun to see the unassuming strangers try to sneak a look at the celebrity trying to see if they know this person, I like the feel of this program, lots of cheer and good vibe. Khalid did a fine job, I do not know how his coworkers are standing by and looking.

The bit when people try to take pictures of him, and then he gets upset....he puts the serious face. He tells people that he gets that a lot and he gets in the act. He tells them he hates the guy who he looks like him. It's a good idea--I doubt it's original. This is a well-acted plot, then he cries when his boss cuts his wage.

خالد سليم في برنامج مشبه عليك

Read More

Watch: My Arabic Farewell Duet ديو ماجد المهندس و رويدا عطية - الوداع

She is Syrian, and he is Iraqi, the song is Algerian, and then they cover it. A dramatic song gets a another lease on life thanks to this lively cover by two equally stunning singers who can sing and sing their lungs out. Rouida Attieh and Majid Al Monhndis know when they take these microphones to perform an oldie by the late Warda, they are attempting to swim upriver.

Watch the clip, and let me know what your thoughts are.....the farewell song, the title is about going away or living apart--many Arabs can relate to this song because they live away form home. No question, the music is perfect and maybe that's because we grew up listening to the song on radio.

ديو ماجد المهندس و رويدا عطية - الوداع

Read More

Adam Sings For Myriam Fares' New Ramadan Drama

When Lebanese eye candy Myriam Faris decided to star in a TV drama this Ramadan, the backers got millions of dollars on her. They booked a team of an A list of Egyptian actors to back her up, and now comes the new song for the opening credit and promo....

Adam, one of my favorite Lebanese pop artists got the contract and his voice graces the show. Watching the clips that went with the song you can tell the makeup work is second to none, the locations are fancy and does not cheap. The song is about being wrongfully accused. I am sensing a love triangle, betrayal, jealousy, family drama and tragedy. I will not have time to watch the show, but I know this will be a strong show this season for a number of reasons.

There are half a dozen Arab networks that have already bought the rights to broadcast the drama. Now, the Gulf will be interested in seeing Myraim, Lebanon likes her, Egypt is mad about her, and the rest is history. The song was actually recorded and mixed in Turkey with A list musicians and producers.
أغنية مسلسل اتهام - ادم

Read More

WATCH #Arab Idol Judges Bullies A Young Egyptian Woman

Being mean on TV may get ratings, but watch this young Egyptian woman who wants to be a star. At the start they were mean to her, and had some harsh words for her. It's true not everyone can be a star, but for Hajir Hamdi this is all she has and she wants to be validated by those big names of Arabic pop. I know she will have to go home at some point, but the first yes is important for the self-esteem.

Even the Egyptian on the panel gave her no! Nancy, Raghib and Ahlam eventually gave her the the yeses she needed. I did not like the pegging portion of the audition, but some people may relate to that.  Hagir or Hajir is not very good, but as you can see a bit of the audition process qualify to be bullying of this young woman. At the end it was all smiles and all is well

 Arab Idol - تجارب الاداء - هاجر حمدي

Read More

Bassel Alzaro From Marketing To Presenting The X Factor

Many of those voices competing on the X Factor won't have much once the season concludes. The host of the show however will always have few things to do once the show ends. This is Bassel Alzaro who is the presenter of the show. He is a seasoned spokesperson and talks about his career on the side where he works in marketing and branding.

He is an Egyptian guy who likes to talk big about his career. He is young and presentable, but he makes no secret about seeking better things once this show is over. He is well traveled and seems to be a cultured soul.

But the entire show is about branding, do not you see how Pepsi's logos and products all over the show?

Bassel Alzaro - Interview باسل الزارو The X Factor Arabia

Read More

The Lebanese Brazilian Half Breed Carolina de Oliveira TV Personality

Yes, there are thousands like here who share Lebanese (Syrian) heritage with Brazilian citizenship,  but she has the coolest and most exotic name for a Lebanese media personality. She also holds a degree in English literature. Carolina de Oliveira shot to fame on the MBC network where she worked for years on various shows and programs, now she left that gig to act. She has also appeared on celebrity duets about two years ago, where she had an exchange who a judge who was picking on her--she put him in his place.

She is back in the spotlight and she dishes about a love story she is living. She is currently starring on a Lebanese drama that will air on LBC. She has appeared on an Egyptian film years ago, but this is the first time she takes the lead. She seems to maybe want to come back to TV and hosting a number of shows.  She is a well-decorated entertainer with half a dozen awards.

 

Read More

Have You Bought Your Tickets Yet? Carole Samaha - Al Sayedah ... 9 December 2013 | كارول سماحة - السيدة ... 9 ديسمبر

The biggest show on earth will debut on December 9th 2013. The same year when Lebanese pop diva and celebrity Carole Samah released her most celebrated album to date, the same year she was wed, and now comes her big show...the lady.

The producers are Rotana, and it seems Pepsi labeled itself as a partner. This is the Broadway grade show that has been in the works for more than a year. There will be music, dance, acting and some crazy stage stunts....and sure some kind of message.

The teaser for Al Sayedah where it feels like an ad for a hair product or a razor company, I guess we have to wait and see what is the big deal? Carole is an intellect entertainer....she has a good head on her shoulder and now she has been talking up about this show....This will be some high budget show that's well-rehearsed....lucky these Lebanese residence they get to enjoy this show. I know the show will be touring around the Arab World and maybe ultimately to the States...

I hope the critics let us in on how they really feel.....


Carole Samaha - Al Sayedah ... 9 December 2013 | كارول سماحة - السيدة ... 9 ديسمبر 2013

Read More

WATCH: Kid From #Syria Bewitched Arabs Got Talent تجارب الأداء -نائل الطرابلسي

I have mixed feeling about the boy wonder on Arab Got Talents, the young Syrian musician Nael Tarablsi. In one hand, he is a gifted piano-player who has the musical knowledge to be able to tell which note and melody are being played without looking. He passed the test, not only did he play vibrant music, but he added a little musical challenge.

The shameful part lays in the fact grownups are using him to express their failures. He is being used as a tool to talk about the war in Iraq. He talked about losing his piano in the war and such, which can be true, but I think it's a cheap shot. To add to the injury, many Syrian celebrities are now using him on Twitter to become more famous and relevant. MBC, is also getting the word out about him with his own hash tag #تحدي_نائل  Challenge Nael.....

We should all focus on his art and his talent, he is bless his heart a smart kid who has the intelligence and charisma many stars dream of. I love how confident he is, and how funny he comes across, he talks like an old man, but his music is something that will take him far, and he might be the strong contender on the show. I hope he will find his piano, as he said Keyboards are limited, unlike his talent that seems to be limitless. 

I do not think, he should be counted from one side of another, he is a Syrian and that's what matters, he is not a political party. He is a credit to that nation, using him for politics is shameful and will backfire.

Arabs Got Talent - تجارب الأداء -نائل الطرابلسي

Read More

WATCH: Sexy Or Over The Top Naya - Men Eidy / نايا - من إيدي

Ladies of Lebanese pop are many, talented ones with skillful business mangers are very few. Naya is one of the lucky ones, she has the youth on her side, and the smart business manger who oversaw the career of the likes of Nawal Al Zoghby.

And then she danced on the Lebanese version of dancing with stars and got her moves refined. Then comes her new music video where she puts it all on display in those short shorts and the lady who likes dangerous boys, and living life on the edge by her own rules. Naya has one album to her name, but the Arab Spring is making it harder to sell records or hold concerts.

Is her display on girl power too much? I thin it depends, some of it fits the plot, the rest if just poor-taste garbage. No judging, this is a music video that airs on prime time...at home Naya has the rights to wear or not wear clothes. on TV she should tone it down. The guy grinding and breathing on her is kind of out of place. But then again, you can always change the channel.

P.S. Does her picture make her look like a blonde kardashian?

Naya - Men Eidy / نايا - من إيدي

Read More

Duet Impossible Doing Something New With The Oldies

This is an idea that I cannot have enough of, bring back some of the legends to live, toss in a new generation singer who idolizes that figure and have them perform a song together in a duet fashion. The show currently airs on MBC and it has everyone talking. This is the Arab version of a little known show with British personality Vernon Kay.

Oum Kalthoum seems to be everyone's idol, Arab entertainers chose to go back on time and perform next to her on stage. Among the super stars who have appeared is Moroccan diva Asma Lemnawar, Sherine, Wael Jassar Yara, Katehm Al Saher as well as others. Abdel Halim is another cool pick, those ones who really want a heavy doze can stop by Farid Al Atrach and Abdel Wahab.

I do not seem to be drawn to the different changing hosts who change between Lebanese and Egyptian ones.  The quality retro music videos where the new stars is super imposed on the video, it can fool us. MBC gave top spot to singers who are on contract with them--like the judges of The Voice. They also invite only stars on their music label. 

أسماء المنور وعاصي الحلاني ويارا ووائل جسار ومشاعل وكاظم الساهر ودينا بطمة التي غنّت مع أم كلثوم.
دنيا بطمة و ام كلثوم - انت عمري / بحلم بيك / ديو المستحيل


بحلم بيك | ديو المستحيل | الحلقة الثانية - جزء 5 / شيرين


بحلم بيك | ديو المستحيل | الحلقة الاولى - جزء 4 / يارا


صابر الرباعي - بحلم بيك / ديو المستحيل - الحلقة 4 - جزء

Read More

WATCH: Ziad Bourji Ft. Dalida Khalil - Inta Habib El Aleb - زياد برجي مع داليدا خليل - انت حبيب القلب

Lebanese romance is not dead, in a way it offers more emotions than the Egyptian romance which relies more heavily on the poetic lyrics. Ziad Bourji and Dalida Khalil are out with a duet filled-with emotions and love is all over the place. This is a very close song to being sensual.

the couple seem to be really in love, Ziad is a flirt and good looking guy who is also a talented musicians--he wrote songs for Elissa and such. But in private he is a party guy who is known for good times. Dalida Khalil is the guest her, but she stood her ground and delivered a convincing performance.

Some may not know this, but the couple have been staring in a hit sitcom where they are aso in love, the music video you see below is taking from that sitcom.

Ziad Bourji Ft. Dalida Khalil - Inta Habib El Aleb - زياد برجي مع داليدا خليل - انت حبيب القلب

Read More