MDLBEAST, the leading Saudi music entertainment company, kicked off Balad Beast 2025 on Thursday, January 30th, turning the historic streets of Jeddah, the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Al Balad”, into a dazzling celebration of culture and music. This year’s festival blends rich traditions with contemporary global sounds, featuring captivating light projections and immersive artistic experiences in the heart of Al Balad, one of the Kingdom’s most iconic and historic areas.
Day one brought the energy with standout performances across multiple stages, showcasing both local and international talent. The “Bab” stage came to life with incredible performances by artists such as Saudi-born Lil Eazy, who brought a unique blend of hip-hop and R&B, and British soul sensation Michael Kiwanuka, whose mesmerizing set left the crowd captivated. International rap star 21 Savage took the stage by storm, delivering a thrilling mix of styles and high-energy moments. At the same time, Egypt’s Disco Misr lit up the stage with their unique retro-futuristic disco-funk reimaginings of Arabic classics.
Electronic music fans were treated to powerhouse sets on the “Omda” stage, where Argy’s hypnotic beats set the mood, while Korolova and Dish Dash brought their signature house and techno rhythms, infusing the air with pure energy and excitement.
The “Roshan” stage also offered dynamic performances, featuring the vibrant sounds of Gooner and Majid, whose electrifying sets kept the energy flowing throughout the day. Meanwhile, the “Souq” stage hosted an exciting mix of artists including Black Loops, Biirdperson, and Hamdi Ryder, adding even more variety to the musical lineup. These are just a few of the talented artists who graced both stages, adding to the diverse atmosphere that makes Balad Beast truly one-of-a-kind.
As the music pulsed through Jeddah, the historic buildings of Al Balad were transformed into a canvas for a stunning light projection show creating an otherworldly visual experience. The light shows not only illuminated the night but added a layer of magic, making the rich history of the area an active participant in the festival’s celebrations.
MDLTOWN, offered a variety of food options, giving attendees a taste of local flavors while they explored the immersive experiences. For those seeking exclusive Balad Beast products, the “Beast Baqala” pop-up shop featured limited-edition merchandise, including items inspired by Al Balad’s iconic Roshan windows and the highly anticipated Since 2087 x Hadeed jerseys, honoring Jeddah’s football culture.
As Day One ends, excitement is building for tomorrow’s lineup, which promises even more unforgettable performances. Get ready for the electrifying
sounds of Lost Frequencies, the iconic Wiz Khalifa, and the genre-defying Metro Boomin, as well as the ethereal tunes of Ghostly Kisses and the dynamic energy of Tina Savage.
