Welcome to The Grapevine – a new monthly series from Pink Jinn where we pass the mic to artists, thought leaders, influencers and pioneers from across the Middle East, North Africa and the global diaspora. They’ll be sharing their top arts, culture and lifestyle picks with all of us – from the books and podcasts shaping the way they think, to the music, food, places and brands that bring magic to their everyday.
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Here to kick us off… our iconic inaugural guest, the one and only Bashar Murad!
Bashar Murad is a Palestinian singer/songwriter and filmmaker based in East Jerusalem whose music is ‘globally influenced but rooted in the Palestinian spirit’. His work challenges the Israeli occupation, patriarchy, and all forms of oppression, addressing societal issues faced by Palestinian youth that are often ignored and considered taboo.
His most recent single and music video, Ya Lel, takes listeners and viewers on a journey through the different stages of the cycle of life, channelling dark pop vibes and using visuals of fantastical mythology against the iconic backdrop of East Jerusalem.
Scroll for his top recommendations and to get a sneak peek at the myriad cultural elements that inspire this brilliant human and his inimitable work…
AN ARTIST, DESIGNER OR CREATOR WHO INSPIRES YOU
Growing up surrounded by Khaled Hourani’s vibrant, contemporary art has been a constant inspiration. One of his remarkable pieces is a watermelon artwork that cleverly incorporates the colours of the Palestinian flag, turning a symbol of restriction into a source of joy and laughter. His art has made multiple appearances in my art (in Antenne & Ya Lel).
ALL-TIME FAVOURITE ALBUM
Sabreen holds immense significance in my life, as my father was one of the founding members of the musical group. Being born during the peak of the band’s success was truly a stroke of luck. “Smoke of the Volcanoes” is an exceptional collection of songs, and the track “On Man” with its profound lyrics by Mahmoud Darwish is particularly heartbreaking and indicative of the Palestinian experience. The album is a testament to the artistic brilliance and cultural impact of Sabreen.
A BOOK YOU CAN’T PUT DOWN
‘Frankenstein’ by Mary Shelley is a remarkable novel that explores the concept of what defines a monster or a villain and emphasizes the deceptive nature of appearances. Shelley’s decision to release the novel anonymously adds another layer of significance to its narrative. She was acutely aware that society’s perception of a woman writing such a provocative and unsettling tale could lead to severe consequences, including the loss of her children. This parallel to contemporary artists’ fears of societal backlash highlights the power of art to challenge norms and provoke strong reactions.
GO-TO PODCAST
The Queer Arabs is an incredible platform that fosters dialogues about the intersection of Middle Eastern/Southwest Asian + North African identities and LGBTQ experiences. Recording in both English and Arabic, the hosts, based in the US, bring together guests from diverse locations. The podcast celebrates queer artists, activists, and organisers from SWANA and its diasporas, promoting racial justice, gender liberation, and sex positivity. I even had the privilege of being a guest on one of their episodes!
FAVOURITE RESTAURANT
I am eagerly anticipating the opening of Bajjali & Ko, a Korean-Palestinian cafe in Jerusalem. The fusion of these two culinary traditions, founded by my dear friend Natalie of the same heritage, excites me. Having enjoyed her delicious food for years, I am thrilled that others will now have the chance to experience her delectable creations in this new venture.
A SMALL BUSINESS MAKING WAVES
Anat International is a slow-fashion streetwear brand and community originating in Gaza, Palestine. Their commitment to breaking boundaries and defying norms resonates with me. I admire their gender-inclusive designs and the collaborative effort of women and men in cutting, sewing, and hand-embroidering their garments. I even had the opportunity to collaborate with them on merchandise.
FAVOURITE PLACE ON EARTH
Jerusalem is undeniably one of the most breathtaking places on Earth, with its rich history and cultural significance. It holds a special place in my heart for its beauty and people, but it also evokes mixed emotions. I feel a sense of sorrow for its current state and the constant chokehold of the Israeli occupation.
WILD CARD
My new single, ‘Ya Lel’, is an ode to the darkness that exists within all of us. It beautifully captures that overwhelming feeling when reality becomes too difficult to face, and all you want to do is close your eyes and find solace in the darkness. The song speaks to the transformative power of turning that darkness into something beautiful. The accompanying video, filmed last year, is a collaborative work of art that merges the talents of amazing Palestinian musicians, fashion designers, videographers, and the team. It explores themes of death and rebirth, emphasising the strength that comes from being reborn and the importance of taking a break in order to come back even stronger. “Ya Lel” is a profound and visually stunning representation of resilience and the journey towards self-discovery.
