Six Aspiring Arab Musicians Win TikTok MENA LIVE’s #GimmeTheMic

Cairo – 11 September 2024: The curtain has closed on TikTok LIVE’s #GimmeTheMic competition, an event that has become the stage for aspiring musicians across the MENA region. The finale, held on 9 September at the Theatre of Digital Art and streamed LIVE on the @TikTokLive_MENA page, saw talented finalists from the region showcase their unique sounds, in a bid to represent the region on a global platform.
Since its inception last year, #GimmeTheMic has been more than just a competition— it has evolved into a celebration of musical creativity and a journey that has captured the hearts of TikTok’s vibrant community. With the aim of discovering and nurturing exceptional music creators, this initiative has unearthed some of the brightest talents in the region. These 12 finalists, selected by the community through in-app voting, represent a new wave of musical innovators ready to make their mark in the world.
The journey to the finale has been filled with intense preparation, creative expression, and invaluable guidance from #GimmeTheMic’s celebrated judging panel. Arab pop star and MTV Music Award nominee Sandy, Syrian singer and actor Samo Zaen—winner of the Best Middle East Artist Award—and Moroccan artist Grini, recipient of an MTV European Music Award, have each played a pivotal role in shaping the contestants’ progress.
Through personalized coaching sessions, they helped the contestants refine their talents and build confidence. These sessions were more than just training; they were a masterclass in what it takes to succeed in the music industry, with the judges sharing their own experiences, challenges, and insights.
Reflecting on the finale, Samo Zaen said, “These young talents aren’t just grabbing the mic—they’re commanding it. This competition shows how TikTok today is more than just a platform for entertainment. It’s a place where artists can truly express themselves, connect with a global audience, and launch their music careers.”
The 6 winners of the competition, Fathy Samir (@fathysamirrofficial), Balqees Raed (@balqees7890), Ahmed Yaser (@ahmedyassersinger), Amira Aly (@merooamira000), Jan Georg (@jaaan.official), and Amr Tarek (@amrtarek.tv), will now move forward to the global #GimmeTheMic contest, representing the MENA region with the opportunity to be recognized as one of the world’s top emerging music creators.
The event brought together musicians from different countries and diverse backgrounds, each with their own story and sound. In many ways, #GimmeTheMic has already made a significant impact, showcasing the region’s diverse musical talent and creating a new community of creators passionate about their craft.
This sets the stage for a new chapter in MENA’s music scene, one that celebrates local talent and empowers them to shine brightly on a global platform.