Palestinian musicians Saint Levant and MC Abdul have joined forces to release “Deira,” a heartfelt homage to the people and rich culture of Gaza. In this collaboration, the artists embrace the traditional Shaabi Arab musical style to convey a message of peace and unity. With Levant recently signing with Universal Arabic Music label, founded by Wassim “Sal” Slaiby, manager of the Weeknd and CEO of XO, their powerful union is set to make waves in the music industry.
The name “Deira” holds a special significance for Levant, as it is the name of the hotel built by his father, Rashid, and mother in 2000 when they relocated to Gaza. As Levant, a multi-ethnic artist of Palestinian, Algerian, French, and Serbian descent, explains, Deira refers to the Kasbah or the old city. Constructed entirely with mud due to the scarcity of cement, the hotel stood as a testament to architectural brilliance, comprising 22 rooms and boasting a stunning beachfront location. However, tragedy struck on July 16, 2014, when four children playing outside the hotel fell victim to Israeli rocket fire. More recently, the hotel was completely destroyed by bombing just three months ago.
Beyond honoring the hotel’s legacy, “Deira” serves as a celebration of Palestinian daily life. Levant draws inspiration from Dahmane El Harrachi, the revered master of Algerian chaâbi music, infusing the song with a sound deeply intertwined with Algerian culture (his mother’s heritage) and Palestinian culture (his father’s land). The track beautifully captures the fusion of Levant’s parents’ cultures, immersing listeners in a rich tapestry of musical influences.
Contributing verses in English to “Deira,” 15-year-old Gaza-based rapper Abdul’s talent shines through. Expressing his excitement about the release, Abdul, who garnered attention with a feature in Variety in 2020, emphasizes the personal significance of the song. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to his people and Palestine as a whole. Filmed in Jordan, the music video showcases the bond between Abdul and his brother, Saint Levant, bringing their collaboration to life.
Abdul shares the challenges he faced leading up to the song’s release. Having left Gaza just a month before the war erupted, he had planned to work on new songs and connect with his fans. However, as the situation spiraled out of control, he witnessed the devastating impact of the conflict on his loved ones. Music became his refuge, his therapy, allowing him to express himself authentically. “Deira” marks his comeback, a testament to his unwavering determination to advocate for his culture and use music as a platform for self-expression.
The collaboration between Saint Levant and MC Abdul in “Deira” is a powerful testament to the resilience of the Palestinian people and their dedication to preserving their cultural heritage. Through their evocative lyrics and soul-stirring melodies, they invite listeners to join them on a journey that transcends borders, reaffirming the power of music to heal, unite, and inspire.
To listen to “Deira” and support these talented artists, visit F5mag.com.