Music of Saudi Arabia

Recording music is illegal in modern Saudi Arabia, though live traditions are tolerated and flourish throughout the country and a black market for recorded music is widespread. Like many of its Persian Gulf neighbors, khaleeji folk traditions are the most popular styles. The most distinguished musician in recent Saudi history is Tariq Abdul Haqim, who wrote the Saudi national anthem. Later musicians include the pan-Arab star Mohamed Abdu, Saudi Arabia's first pop star Abdu Majeed and Abdullah and the 'ud virtuoso Abadi al Johar. Egyptian pop music is also popular.

References

• Badley, Bill. "Sounds of the Arabian Penninsula". 2000. In Broughton, Simon and Ellingham, Mark with McConnachie, James and Duane, Orla (Ed.), World Music, Vol. 1: Africa, Europe and the Middle East, pp 351-354. Rough Guides Ltd, Penguin Books. ISBN 1-85828-636-0