• by Ray Schultz , June 22, 2023

Billboard, the American music brand, is partnering with SRMG, an integrated media group from the Middle East/North Africa region (MENA) to launch Billboard Arabia, they announced at Cannes.

The new platform will celebrate artists with Arab roots. 

"The music scene in the MENA region is rapidly transforming,” says Jomana R. Al-Rashid, CEO of SRMG.  “However, there is currently no dedicated platform to spotlight and tell the stories of the Arab artists leading innovation in the global music industry.” 

Billboard and SRMG seek to help fill that void in the market. They will introduce several charts over the next year, utilizing data from digital streaming platforms such as Spotify, and will host Billboard Arabia Music Awards and live concerts.

“Billboard Arabia is more than just a digital platform,” Al-Rashid adds. “It will be the premier destination to celebrate the Arab music community and empower the business of music through data-driven charts, live concerts and awards.”

“We are excited to join forces with SRMG to launch Billboard Arabia,” said Mike Van, President of Billboard. 

Van adds,“SRMG’s reach and access in the region coupled with our experience will ensure artists with Arab roots are heard around the world.”