MDLBeast: Meet Saudi DJ Vinyl Mode

It’s not long to go until MDLBeast Soundstorm returns to Riyadh. The festival is, quite simply, the biggest music event in Riyadh, as it is unrivalled when it comes to its sheer scale and impressive line-ups.

While there are international superstar DJs coming to the capital, from David Guetta to Deadmau5, there is also homegrown talent taking to the stage. We chatted to the Saudi DJ, Vinyl Mode, about being a superstar in his hometown.

How did you get into music and where do you find your inspiration?

Music has always been part of my life. I remember my older siblings were obsessed with 90s pop and hip-hop music so I grew up dancing to almost everything. Being born in Saudi Arabia, I was exposed to an array of rich cultures and traditions. This shaped my artistic outlook and influenced my creative approach to expression. I find my inspiration in many different artists so it’s always a difficult one for me to point a finger but if I had to, I would say one of my main inspirations is Jamiroquai.

There aren’t many Saudi DJs with a global platform, how does it feel to be part of a new generation exploring new fields?

This is what I’m personally excited about the most, to change stereotypes on a lot of different things when talking about Saudi, music and local talent. I’m thrilled to be part of this growth for the music industry. We’ve got genuine appetite for good music and talented artists capable of wow-ing international audiences. It’s indescribable the feeling I get when I hear people say I have made them fall in love with EDM music. It’s an honour to be able to project my good vibes through music and leave a lasting, positive impression.

Tell us about your music and what people can expect from your set.

Personally, music isn’t just about mixing top charts, mainstream or popular music. It’s about generating moments that last forever. I usually design my sets based on the occasion, crowd vibes, venue and time slot I’ve got. I would describe my sound as deep house – I like to play dirty underground music at night and more fresh beats in daytime. Expect the unexpected from me at Soundstorm – we’re going to have a great time.

What excites you the most about performing at MDLBeast Soundstorm?

That I never thought we could make it this far. It was only a dream to perform in Saudi Arabia, as it was to perform in any other music-capital city around the world. And now, we’re bringing this home.

The excitement goes beyond how MDLBeast puts on an incredible show through Soundstorm. It’s about being able to introduce our culture to the world and bring to the surface the underground music and dance culture that existed way before Saudi opened to international fans and artists. This is what MDLBeast is about – an authentic movement grown from the local underground scene and why I’m happy to be working with them.

What’s the biggest misconception people have about Saudi Arabia’s live music scene?

The biggest misconception is that Saudi doesn’t have a music and dance scene.
I would like to invite everybody to visit Saudi, and I can assure you that it will blow your mind. We’re deep-rooted with rich culture and have plenty of talent across several artistic and creative areas which we’re celebrating every day now. The opportunity for us is huge in Saudi and across the entire region and we’re ready to move forward. It’s never been more exciting.

As concerts have only recently been allowed, what does it mean to perform in your home?

Absolutely everything. It’s the best thing we could ever have as local artists.

What’s the best thing about being a performer in Saudi Arabia right now?

The opportunity to inspire and influence people from my country and within the region; but to also be able to grow together and celebrate the success.