Inspired by Balqees

A relative newcomer to the regional Khaleeji scene, Yemeni songstress Balqees has quickly become an essential presence. This playlist gathers contemporaries who emulate Balqees' inventive, layered spin on a traditional form—including Arabs Got Talent star Shamma Hamdan, up-and-coming Bahraini starlet Mashael, Lebanese pop idol Yara and Moroccan Star Academy winner Shatha Hasoon.