XP Music Futures 2024, held from December 5 to 7 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was a defining event for the MENA music scene. Under the theme Flourish, this year’s edition not only expanded MDLBeast’s influence but also marked a significant step toward boosting the region’s music ecosystem. The festival attracted a diverse mix of artists, industry professionals, and creatives, offering a rich program of workshops, panel discussions, networking events, and unforgettable performances.
MDLBeast’s commitment to nurturing local talent and expanding its initiatives was more apparent this year. The Flourish theme highlighted the festival’s emphasis on growth, benefiting both individual artists and the broader regional music industry. The event effectively combined personal and professional development opportunities, assisting attendees in navigating the increasingly complex music landscape.
The festival’s program revolved around four core pillars: Talent, Scene, Impact, and Innovation. These pillars set the stage for a variety of activities that provided valuable insights and practical tools for those looking to advance in the industry. Discussions ranged from Building Sustainable Artist Careers to the complexities of incorporating AI into music. Other sessions explored the intricacies of music supervision, label building, and the art of writing compelling Arabic lyrics. These talks offered real-world advice for both emerging and established music professionals.
XP Music Futures 2024 placed a strong emphasis on inclusivity and gender equity. The HUNNA initiative, aimed at elevating women in the music industry, provided a platform for female artists and professionals to network, share experiences, and access mentorship. The initiative’s success was clear, with over 100 women participating in various mentorship programs and workshops, marking a significant step toward gender parity in the region’s music scene.
Innovation was another focal point of the festival. The XPERFORM program, which began earlier in the year, gave up-and-coming artists the chance to perform at SOUNDSTORM 2024, with the added benefit of career-boosting opportunities through MDLBEAST Records. With over 1000 applicants vying for a spot, the competition was fierce, and the finalists earned the chance to showcase their talent to a global audience.
Another exciting initiative was Sound Futures, which allowed aspiring innovators to pitch their groundbreaking music projects to industry investors. Modeled after a “Shark Tank” format, the program offered a unique opportunity for bold ideas to find support and investment, ultimately shaping the future of the music industry.
Storm Shaker, a DJ competition, also played a major role in XP Music Futures 2024, inviting DJs from across the region to showcase their skills. The winner earned a tour across MENA and Europe, performing at key festivals and venues, including SOUNDSTORM 2024 in Saudi Arabia, EXIT Festival in Serbia, and O’Beach in Dubai.
XP Music Futures 2024 also featured an impressive lineup of speakers, from the iconic Director X, who shared his experiences working with top artists like Drake, Rihanna, and Kendrick Lamar, to Cordell Broadus, who discussed his transition from professional football to successful entrepreneurship. Emel Mathlouthi, a Tunisian-American singer-songwriter whose anthem became a voice for the Arab Spring, also inspired attendees with her powerful story.
The festival’s venue, Riyadh’s JAX District, provided the perfect backdrop for a jam-packed schedule of activities. Beyond the formal sessions, the event celebrated MENA’s diverse musical culture with performances and showcases from both local and international artists. Evening parties offered a relaxed atmosphere for networking, where connections were made and collaborations sparked.
XP Music Futures 2024 not only showcased the richness of the region’s music scene but also highlighted the potential for global influence. With its focus on talent development, inclusivity, and innovation, the festival proved to be a crucial platform for anyone seeking to make an impact in the MENA music industry. As the region continues to assert itself as a global music hub, XP Music Futures stands as a testament to the exciting future ahead for both local talent and the global music community.
