THE FIRST LADY OF ARABIC HIP HOP.
SHADIA MANSOUR, also known as “The First Lady of
Arabic HipHop” is a Palestinian MC, singer and producer who performs her music in the Arabic language.
She entered the musical arena in 2002 on the forefront of public protests in London as a teenager while attending school and college, which brought her to the first public appearance at a London Rally protesting the illegal occupation of Palestine. She states that Arabic hip hop plays an integral role in “Globalising the voice of the struggle” while providing a platform for artists. Shadia has pioneered a whole movement of conscious music that is often politically charged. Her rapping and singing style while performing in a Palestinian Thobe are recognised trademarks of hers.
She is best known for her work with Iraqi producer 'Sandhill' on “Alkuffeyeh arabeyeh" (The kuffeyeh is Arab), which highlights the appropriation of arab culture by corporate brands, specifically the black and white ‘kuffeyeh’. The song was recorded with emmy nominated producer and composer, DJ Johnny Juice of the legendary Hip Hop group ‘Public Enemy’ and features M1 of the hip hop duo 'Dead prez'. Shadia also worked with Sandhill on her song “Kollon 3ndhom Dababaat” (They have Tanks, we have rocks). She has many musical collaborations, some of which include "Somos sur"(We are the South) with Chilean Rapper Ana Tijoux, and "Hamdullilah" with Narcy, which was featured in the Fast and Furious 7 Motion picture.
