In contemporary music, few artists have triumphed at doing what Saint Levant has: blending international themes with his Middle Eastern heritage. This part-Palestinian artist has now reached a significant milestone with the release of his much-anticipated debut album, Deira. Titled after the Al Deira Hotel in Gaza, a poignant symbol of his childhood that wasdestroyed in recent conflicts, the album is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a heartfelt homage to his roots, experiences, and the culture that shaped him.
Deira is an 8-track exploration of love, identity, displacement, and culture, capturing the essence of his life and the broader Palestinian experience. The album, now available for streaming, is a collaborative masterpiece, featuring an impressive lineup of artists, including American sensation Kehlani, North African lyricist TIF, Algerian Rai legend Cheb Bilal, and Palestinian icons MC Abdul and Elyanna. Palestinian-Jordanian artist Zeyne and Gaza-based Sol Bandwere tasked to do the background vocals.
For Saint Levant, this album is deeply personal. “I am really proud of this body of work that took me a year to create. I’m honored to share it with you. I dedicate this album to the hotel I grew up in Gaza. I dedicate this album to the people of Palestine. Thank you to everybody who made this come to life,” he expressed on Instagram.
The title evokes the Al Deira Hotel, once a majestic structure in Al-Rimal, Gaza City, designed and operated by his father since 2001. It was a place of beauty and childhood memories until it was reduced to rubble by bombings in late 2023.Through Deira, Saint Levant imagines the hotel as a symbol of return and a free Palestine, a poignant testament to the enduring spirit of his people.
Saint Levant’s debut album is expected to meet and perhaps even exceed the high expectations set by his rising career. Each track in Deira showcases his growth and versatility as an artist, cementing his position as a transformative force in the music industry. More than just an internet sensation, Saint Levant’s work underscores his commitment to his values and vision, demonstrating that staying true to oneself while addressing pressing social issues is possible.
Since 2020, the 24-year-old artist has been on a mission to bring Palestine and the region to the forefront of the global music scene. Despite facing scrutiny and occasional backlash for his outspoken views, Saint Levant has become synonymous with integrity and perseverance. He has reshaped how artists engage with societal issues through their art, proving that music can be a powerful vehicle for change.
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