Biography

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 which brought her to the first public appearance at a Political Rally. She states that Arabic hip hop plays an integral role in “amplifying the voice of the oppressed” 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 features M1 of Hip Hop duo Dead Prez and was recorded with emmy nominated producer and composer, DJ Johnny Juice of the legendary Hip Hop group ‘Public Enemy’. Shadia also worked with Sandhill on her popular song “Kollon 3ndhon Dababaat” (They have Tanks), the remix of the song features Palestinian group DAM. She has many musical collaborations, some of which include "Somos sur" (We are the South) with Chilean Rapper Ana Tijoux, and "Hamdullilah" with The Narcicyst aka Narcy, which was featured in the Fast and Furious 7 Motion picture.