Nada Mesh
I'm a creative writer, music journalist and SEO blog writer
Zeina Mates
I remember discovering Montreal-based singer/songwriter Zeina back in 2020, when her music video for “Suburbs” came up in my Youtube suggested, after what must have been a 3 hour deep-dive into soulful, female-centric R&B tracks. The world was in the midst of the pandemic at the time and only Jhene Aiko and SZA’s (then unreleased) “Good days” snippet on a 1-hour loop could soothe my restlessness. The visuals immediately caught my attention, because there was no doubt that the video was filmed in
21 Questions with Amman’s Big Murk
The MENA region's underground music scene remains bursting with untapped talent awaiting recognition. Among them is Big Murk, an independent Palestinian-Jordanian producer, drummer, and MC based in Amman. Specializing in UK grime and diverse hip-hop subgenres, his beat-making style is characterized by dynamic drum patterns and calculated basslines that create bounce-worthy and grungy beats. Big Murk also showcases his talent in production as an active DJ, often performing at MNFA - a prominent u
KINIDA On Sound & Color, And Making People Feel Things
If you haven’t heard of multidisciplinary sound and visual artist KINIDA, a quick glance at her conceptually written artist bio on Spotify will give you an idea of just how metaphysical the scope of her work is. “We are all changing under the same sky, metaphysical mysteries, art is emotions, you are making me feel things.” Indeed, KINIDA’s approach to her sound and artistry is simply a transference of her and her collective, YenseSori’s (alongside GINJA and WEST1NE) sentiments about what it mea
Redefining Femininity: Ahsh Eff
The very first Video I watched of Ahsh Eff, was her cameo on Paint and Poetry. I had instant admiration for her unapologetic honesty and clever perspective in her first piece “Allergic To Chocolate,” but it was something about the quiet conviction she carried through her second piece “I Know” though, which had me intrigued. A New York - based rapper, hailing from Brooklyn and Connecticut, Ahsh brings that familiar New York complex lyricism and gritty sound to her music, but her catalogue boasts
IDMAN is Breaking Barriers & Liberating Themselves Through Their Music
When I first listened to Canadian born, Somali artist IDMAN’s single “Down for It,” released November of last year, and the first from their forthcoming EP, Risk, I was initially drawn in by the delicate force of their vocals, and the subtle juxtaposition between the simplicity of the lyrics and the meaningful significance of the message behind the track - all on a premiere release for them.Upon learning more about the artist’s diverse cultural upbringing (having been raised in Toronto, Kenya, a
Top Five Arabic Musicians to Look Out For
This article explores Arabic musical artists on the come-up, who are redefining music from the region by blending traditional elements with innovation and global inspiration.
These artists are fearlessly breaking boundaries and paving the way for a reconceptualization of classic Arabic beats and rhythms, while still making sure that representation doesn’t overshadow their unique styles.
We've chosen five musicians to highlight, as a reflection of the ever-evolving cultural landscape of the MENA region music scene.
These artists are fearlessly breaking boundaries and paving the way for a reconceptualization of classic Arabic beats and rhythms, while still making sure that representation doesn’t overshadow their unique styles.
We've chosen five musicians to highlight, as a reflection of the ever-evolving cultural landscape of the MENA region music scene.
Effects of Music on Mental Health
The therapeutic benefits of music have been recognized for centuries, appearing in everything from ancient rituals, to contemporary forms of sound therapy. The profound and interconnected relationship between mental health and music encompasses various psychological, emotional, and physiological aspects.
The Psychology of Music: How Melodies Affect Us
From the rhythmic and trance-inducing beats that dominate music festivals to the subdued melodies that accompany moments of reflection, music has an undeniable impact on our emotions and well-being.
In this article, we delve into the psychology of music - unpacking the intricate relationship between melodies and the human mind and revealing how music can shape our mood, memories, and overall sense of self.
In this article, we delve into the psychology of music - unpacking the intricate relationship between melodies and the human mind and revealing how music can shape our mood, memories, and overall sense of self.
Resonating Rhythms: The Power of Music
Music has been an integral part of humanity for centuries. Music's power goes far beyond its ability to simply entertain; it spans cultures, languages, and demographics, to deliver a universal message.
In this article, we explore the profound impact of music on individuals and society at large. From its therapeutic effects to its role in uniting communities, music has proven to be a potent force in shaping the world we live in.
In this article, we explore the profound impact of music on individuals and society at large. From its therapeutic effects to its role in uniting communities, music has proven to be a potent force in shaping the world we live in.
The Evolution of Electronic Music
Electronic music has carved an unparalleled path in the music industry, transcending time and cultural boundaries to become a global phenomenon. Since the return of live concerts in 2021, the global electronic music industry has witnessed a comeback, with Electronic Dance Music (EDM) artists being particularly sought after globally for music festivals.
The evolution of electronic music from its experimental beginnings to its current dominance on dance floors worldwide is a fascinating story spanning over a century. We'll honor the pioneering musicians who helped pave the way for electronic music as we learn its history and investigate its many subgenres - from electronic dance music (EDM) to electro-pop to techno house to melodic techno.
The evolution of electronic music from its experimental beginnings to its current dominance on dance floors worldwide is a fascinating story spanning over a century. We'll honor the pioneering musicians who helped pave the way for electronic music as we learn its history and investigate its many subgenres - from electronic dance music (EDM) to electro-pop to techno house to melodic techno.
Unlocking Potential: Impact of Music Education
Enhancing cognitive skills, encouraging creative thinking, and developing emotionally intelligent people are just a few of the many benefits of music education. A person's development can be profoundly affected by taking music classes or learning an instrument. Music education is essential, particularly in the Middle East, since music plays a central role in both traditional and modern society.
Echoes of the Past: The History of Arabic Music
Arabic music is strongly rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East, and has been shaped by several, diverse civilizations contributing to the region's artistic identity.
From the distinguishing sounds of the Arabic beat to the flourishing music and entertainment scene in Saudi Arabia, this article touches on the evolution of Arabic music and its enduring impact on the global stage.
From the distinguishing sounds of the Arabic beat to the flourishing music and entertainment scene in Saudi Arabia, this article touches on the evolution of Arabic music and its enduring impact on the global stage.
Parkdale Rapper on the Come-up, G Body, Talks the Importance of Community, Challenging Stereotypes, and the Lost Art of Authenticity - Sidedoor Magazine
Over the past year or so, Parkdale-native rapper, G Body, has cemented a name for himself as one of the most promising new rappers coming out of Toronto. With a unique flow, careful lyricism, and an undeniably authentic energy, this community-minded artist let’s his work do the talking when it comes to representing – not just himself, but also – the neighborhood that shaped him.
2019 saw the release of his dynamic 8-track EP, Project Cat, with his single “Gangland” gaining him critical acclaim
2019 saw the release of his dynamic 8-track EP, Project Cat, with his single “Gangland” gaining him critical acclaim
Savannah Ré Wears Her Heart On Her Sleeve For New Track “Homies” - Sidedoor Magazine
Today markes the release of Toronto native, singer/songwriter Savannah Ré’s second single “Homies,” from her upcoming debut EP Opia. The track follows shortly after the first taster off of the album, “Where You Are,” and delivers the same authentic story-telling, and effortless vocal fluidity that we’ve come to know and love from the up-and-coming artist. With the steady development of her roster of work, it’s easy to understand how the young musician came to be under the mentorship of Grammy Aw
Sean Leon Drops R&B Summer Banger Along with Visuals - Sidedoor Magazine
On Saturday, June 20th, Toronto rapper Matthew Sean Leon – better known under his stage name Sean Leon – took to Instagram to reveal that he had dropped his first single in over a year, “Guillotine,” along with accompanying visuals.
The track arrives in anticipation of his long awaited third studio album, “King & Sufferin.” Back in the early days of March (before Ms. Rona took center stage), Leon had launched his “House of Leon” initiative in collaboration with Red Bull, which was supposed to b
The track arrives in anticipation of his long awaited third studio album, “King & Sufferin.” Back in the early days of March (before Ms. Rona took center stage), Leon had launched his “House of Leon” initiative in collaboration with Red Bull, which was supposed to b
Supreme's Founder Gives A Super Rare Interview Into The Brands Beginnings & Inspirations
If you’re a hardcore Supreme fan, and have been following their rise since the mid ’90s, you’ll know that the brand is not just a streetwear label for hype heads and fashion-conscious teens, but also a very important element in culture. When Supreme first launched, its debut coincided with the arrival of the iconic Kids movie, both going on to shape generations of outliers and rebels to society. If you know the brand well you know that it’s super rare to get any insight into the brand’s story fr
Tyler, The Creator's GOLF Le FLEUR* Teams Up With Lacoste For A Summery Pastel Lookbook
At the start of last month, June 9th to be exact, Tyler, The Creator took to his Instagram to post a picture of himself at the French Open in the Palace of Versailles, sporting quite the statement pale pink fuzzy sweater. As is usual with the trendsetting musician/designer, people flooded his comment section with questions asking what the different articles of his outfit were with one fan saying “BRO PLEASE I NEED THIS CARDIGAN.” Little did we know at the time, that the very same cardigan would
Jameela Jamil Criticizes Abortion Ban And Defends Her Own
Those who follow actress Jameela Jamil on Twitter know that the star does not hold back whatsoever when it comes to sharing her political stance and opinions on a whole range of topics. Aside from starring on NBC’s The Good Place, the 33-year-old is best known for being an outspoken activist, often weighing in on issues from sex and consent, to the Kardashians’ flat tummy tea promotions.
The latest (and disappointing) news sees the state of Alabama pushing forward one of the nation’s most restr
The latest (and disappointing) news sees the state of Alabama pushing forward one of the nation’s most restr
Ari Lennox Drops Stunning And Sensual Visuals For "Up Late"
At the start of the month, and just in time for her tour to begin, smooth songstress Ari Lennox dropped her remarkable debut album Shea Butter Baby which she previewed to fans by dropping her widely-popular J-Cole assisted, hit single of the same name, “Shea Butter Baby”.
The Dreamville singer has seen a speedy rise to success, with fans picking up on the soulful influence of greats like Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, on her music. She manages to create her own unique vibe through the incorporatio
The Dreamville singer has seen a speedy rise to success, with fans picking up on the soulful influence of greats like Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, on her music. She manages to create her own unique vibe through the incorporatio
UnoTheActivist Drops Dark & Dream-like Visuals For His "Magic" Single
If you’re familiar with the rising underground Atlanta-based rapper UnoTheActivist, you’ve probably been waiting for him to drop the full length version of the fire Magic snippet he posted back in April.
Last night, Uno finally released the full single on his Soundcloud page, as well as a video -shot by DRXVMZ- accompanying the vocals on YouTube.
Uno goes in with his usual focus on lyricism and play-on-words, with clever lyrics like “Infrared, infiltrated” and “Double agent, double profit” tha
Last night, Uno finally released the full single on his Soundcloud page, as well as a video -shot by DRXVMZ- accompanying the vocals on YouTube.
Uno goes in with his usual focus on lyricism and play-on-words, with clever lyrics like “Infrared, infiltrated” and “Double agent, double profit” tha