Music
Is There a Link Between Music And Watches? We Have Proof
Audemars Piguet teamed up with Mark Ronson and RAYE and released a track for their 150th anniversary
by Alexandra Mansilla
30 Jun 2025
5 Music Styles To Uncover This Summer
Balearic House, Downtempo, Ambient House, Reggae, Jazzy House — what are they and how do they sound? Let’s break it down.
by Barbara Yakimchuk
19 Jun 2025
Have You Heard? Dubai’s New Creative Institute Is Almost Here
Everyone should be at the opening — it is going to shake up the creative industry
by Alexandra Mansilla
2 Jun 2025
HAMEX: From a Small Town In Iran To Millions Of Listeners Around the World
The story of Iranian pop star HAMEX: his childhood, music journey, unique style, and big plans
by Barbara Yakimchuk
31 May 2025
UAE Cultural Digest: June 2025
Top cultural, art, and music events this month — the ones you simply can't miss
by Barbara Yakimchuk
28 May 2025
Can Music Really Make You More Productive?
Does music affect your focus — or fuel it? Let’s find out. Bonus: top playlists for work & workouts
by Barbara Yakimchuk
23 May 2025
ALAY: 'I Hope We Reach a Point Where DJs Aren’t Labelled By Gender'
Just five years ago, ALAY wasn’t even a DJ, and now she is being called one of electronic music’s rising stars
by Alexandra Mansilla
22 May 2025
Where To Party In Cairo? Here Is What Locals Say
Cairo’s creative pulse — here is where it beats loudest
by Alexandra Mansilla
18 May 2025
The Summit Strikes Back: IMS Dubai Returns This November
It is time to plan the best weekend of November now
by Dara Morgan
14 May 2025
What Makes Good Sound And What Does It Really Depend On? Let’s Dive In
The founder of Tonefarm, the first UAE-based sound system manufacturer, explains it
by Alexandra Mansilla
13 May 2025
8 Arabic Podcasts To Listen To: From Business To Psychology
Speak Arabic? Then these podcasts are a must — covering everything from comedy to tech and culture
by Barbara Yakimchuk
12 May 2025
Italo Sound Comes To Dubai. Interview With Otto Kraanen, Bordello A Parigi
Looks like the city is about to have one of its most unforgettable nights yet
by Alexandra Mansilla
4 May 2025
OFFLIMITS: How It Went Down (And WHAT Just Happened?)
It was so epic, we just want to rewind time and live it all over again
by Alexandra Mansilla
29 Apr 2025
DJing Workshops Start In Dubai — Guess Who Is Running Them?
Lessons by a DJ who is truly passionate about what they do
by Alexandra Mansilla
22 Apr 2025
Boost Your Workout: Your Go-To Playlist For Running And Cycling
Running or cycling? Only with these tracks
by Barbara Yakimchuk
21 Apr 2025
New On STR: Two Podcasts To Listen To This Month
STR has recently launched two new podcasts — what to expect and why they are worth listening to
by Barbara Yakimchuk
9 Apr 2025
Who Is Najm, And Why Does He Wear a Mask? The Artist Tells Us Himself
From the bottom to Times Square — the story of a Moroccan artist paving his way entirely on his own
by Alexandra Mansilla
26 Mar 2025
DJing As a Profession: Is It Finally Taken Seriously?
And why do DJs always have to chase their money?
by Alexandra Mansilla
19 Mar 2025
Where To Buy Vinyl In Dubai. Jayesh’s Picks
A curated list of record stores in Dubai — both physical and online — where you can find something unique
by Alexandra Mansilla
17 Mar 2025
Many Facets Of Voice, Many Stories It Tells: Meet Saudi Artist DJ Mubarak
From a guy who started by recording covers and passionately writing his own songs to achieving global recognition
by Alexandra Mansilla
13 Mar 2025
Your Must-Listen: Made In The Emirates By Vinyl Souk & 25hours Hotel
Exploring the essence of the new album by Vinyl Souk and 25hours Hotel
by Barbara Yakimchuk
12 Mar 2025
New On STR: Sikka Festival Music Is Now Streaming
The incredible performances from the Sikka Festival are now online: what to expect and where to find them
by Barbara Yakimchuk
26 Feb 2025
Saudi Arabia Cultural Digest 2025: Must-Visit Events
The biggest art and culture events taking place in Jeddah and Riyadh this year
by Barbara Yakimchuk
25 Feb 2025
DJ MoCity: ‘Owning My Identity: Iraqi, Global, And Unapologetic’
How many hats does DJ MoCity wear? Let’s break it down
by Alexandra Mansilla
21 Feb 2025
We Know What You Are Doing On February 22: Karak On the Dhow. Here Is Why
Art, music, conversations — all on a boat with the most creative crowd in town
by Alexandra Mansilla
20 Feb 2025
From Building Stadiums To Building Vibes. Interview With Misha Bymishh
The incredible journey of a DJ from a small town in Russia to making waves in Dubai
by Alexandra Mansilla
19 Feb 2025
Crowd Test Helipad Edition: Best Music. Best People. Best Saturday Night
Last Saturday was a blast. Check it out — just to make sure you do not miss the next party
by Dara Morgan
18 Feb 2025
Crowd Test Warm-Up: The Must-Listen Playlist Before the Party
The music selection of the DJs playing at Helipad — their top gems, perfect to play before the big night of dance
by Barbara Yakimchuk
13 Feb 2025
Whoisbibz: ‘My Debut Track Was Called Jinchūriki Because I Am a Naruto Fan’
The story of Habib Chaoul, a music producer, "bored and raised in Beirut with an obvious identity crisis"
by Alexandra Mansilla
12 Feb 2025
Crowd Test Is Back: Who Is Taking the Stage?
Before you even click — spoiler: every single one of them is a legend
by Alexandra Mansilla
5 Feb 2025
The DJ Playing Over 10 Instruments: Long Arm Is Coming To Dubai
Diving into the story of the renowned musician and DJ — a person with a truly unique sound
by Barbara Yakimchuk
4 Feb 2025
UAE Cultural Digest: February 2025
Diving into the details of February’s best art and music events
by Barbara Yakimchuk
1 Feb 2025
In-Store Sessions At Flipside: Why They Matter And How They Work
Why record stores are community hubs for music lovers and how they work in Dubai
by Barbara Yakimchuk
31 Jan 2025
Discover What Awaits At the Sikka Art And Design Festival
A festival where art meets design, music, and yes — saffron!
by Dara Morgan
25 Jan 2025
Crowd Test Is Back. See You At Helipad Dubai
Mark your calendars: February 15 is your date with art, music, and vibes as high as the Dubai skyline
by Dara Morgan
23 Jan 2025
Honeycomb Hi-Fi: Meet the Vinyl Bees
Have you ever wondered why “honeycomb”? So did we…
by Sophie She
15 Jan 2025
Let Us Play Music In Unexpected Places! Interview With Chloe Barakat, aka KLO
From violin classes to DJing around the world and creating sudden gigs
by Alexandra Mansilla
13 Jan 2025
Meet Kenji Takimi: The Mastermind Behind Japan’s Underground Disco
Kenji is playing in Dubai this week — mark your calendar to discover Japan’s vinyl legend and a true rebellion
by Dara Morgan
13 Jan 2025
The Ultimate Guide To Japan’s Music Scene
STR Creative Director Kito Jempere dives deep into Japan’s modern music scene with insights from him and his friends
by Kito Jempere
10 Jan 2025
Omar Gamal: ‘Arabic Producers Are Bridging East And West In the Music Scene’
The founder of Hence, Management on the role of local artists on the global stage today
by Alexandra Mansilla
9 Jan 2025
From Tokyo With Love: Kenji Takimi Lands At Honeycomb
Japan’s coolest DJ is taking over Dubai’s hottest Izakaya — are you ready for the vibe shift?
by Dara Morgan
7 Jan 2025
Top Upcoming Concerts In the UAE In 2025
Get ready to break a bank — but the experience is worth it
by Dara Morgan
30 Dec 2024
From Manila To Dubai: Unveiling Sonchauni's Journey Through Music And Art
Discovering the journey of a multidisciplinary artist navigating creativity, connection, and culture in Dubai and beyond
by Dara Morgan
27 Dec 2024
Post Voyage: Electronic Duo With a Vintage Vibe And Big Plans
Discover the history of the newly formed band: their style, dreams, plans, and the challenges they face
by Barbara Yakimchuk
25 Dec 2024
Heron Preston Comes To Dubai. Why Should You Be There?
If you miss this party, the FOMO will hit hard
by Dara Morgan
24 Dec 2024
Wolfram: Italo Disco, Fashion Parties, And a New Year’s Eve Takeover
Get ready to dance your way into 2025 with Wolfram’s electrifying set at Nahaté this New Year’s Eve
by Dara Morgan
21 Dec 2024
Meet the Holiday Vibe With Sandy Times Xmas Playlist
40 minutes of Christmas and New Year tracks — Sandy Times Radio DJs' selections
by Barbara Yakimchuk
20 Dec 2024
A New Chapter Of Oasis Festival Is Cooking. Interview With Marjana Jaidi
A look at what is next for the festival after its final edition this year
by Alexandra Mansilla
19 Dec 2024
Chaotic Sound Of Egypt. Interview With Timmy Mowafi, MO4 Network
Is it true that interest in Egyptian music is on the rise? If so, why?
by Alexandra Mansilla
29 Nov 2024
How IMS Came To Dubai. Interview With Pete Tong
Find out how the co-founder of IMS describes the sound of the region, Dubai, and Beirut in words
by Alexandra Mansilla
26 Nov 2024
From Moscow to Dubai: Leonid Lipelis’ Underground Vinyl Journey
A conversation with renowned DJ and producer Leonid Lipelis about his approach to music selection, and crafting party magic
by Dara Morgan
16 Nov 2024
STR: Your New Favourite Podcasts
Digging into what you could listen to from November 16 onwards
by Sophie She
14 Nov 2024
This Is Your Final Call For Crowd Test Festival
Only a few days left — check timetable, grab your friends, and let us meet on November 16!
by Dara Morgan
13 Nov 2024
Songs For Every Life Moment. Chosen By Parvané
Save these tracks and pull them out for just the right moment in life
by Alexandra Mansilla
9 Nov 2024
A DJ From New Zealand Comes To Dubai. Meet Eden Burns
What is the mystery behind the characters on Eden’s record covers?
by Alexandra Mansilla
6 Nov 2024
Videos Of Mainline Magic Orchestra To Watch Before the Crowd Test Festival
And remember: everything the guys do is not just about music but also about having fun
by Alexandra Mansilla
31 Oct 2024
Upcoming Music Album Releases To Look Forward To In November 2024
Calling all audiophiles! Here are some of the most anticipated music releases for November
by Ashas Bukhari
31 Oct 2024
No Martina — No Partina! Meet the Young Blood Of Crowd Test
Getting to know the DJs behind the best night of the year, that will take place at our festival on November 16
by Sophie She
30 Oct 2024
From Cairo Roots To Dubai Beats: Interview With Shadi Megalla
Discover the pulse of UAE’s vinyl scene, through Shadi Megalla’s story
by Sophie She
27 Oct 2024
Mischief Managed. Interview With Mainline Magic Orchestra
Discover the music collective that turns all of their performances into a joke
by Alexandra Mansilla
24 Oct 2024
The Story of Boogie Box, Ending This Year. Interview with Hassan Alwan
How did it all begin, and why is Boogie Box coming to an end?
by Alexandra Mansilla
22 Oct 2024
Vinyl Records At the Heart Of Beirut’s Nightlife
Discovering authentic vinyl stores in the heart of Gemmayzeh
by Christelle Eldaher
20 Oct 2024
What Is Happening With the Music Scene In the Middle East: Explained by Kito Jempere And Hani J
Two musicians – Kito Jempere and Hani J – discuss music scene in the Middle East, local DJs, and The Sandy Times Crowd Test Festival
by Sofia Brontvein
18 Oct 2024
Kito Jempere Explains How Great Music Is Born Out Of Chaos
Sandy Times Radio Art Director and musician Kito Jempere talks about his new album and our plans to launch the radio
by Sofia Brontvein
17 Oct 2024
Suzanna, aka Bazzzuk: ‘My Love For Electronic Music Started With Prodigy’
How the DJ you all know unexpectedly became a DJ — simply out of a pure obsession with music
by Alexandra Mansilla
16 Oct 2024
Armin Van Buuren: ‘Pillars of Creation Takes Me Back To My Roots’
The DJ is set to surprise Ras Al Khaimah with a completely new show to launch the Seven Wonders series
by Alexandra Mansilla
9 Oct 2024
MDLBEAST Soundstorm: Eminem, Muse, Tyler, The Creator Head To Riyadh
This is not the complete list — there is Thirty Seconds to Mars, David Guetta, and many more
by Alexandra Mansilla
9 Oct 2024
EZOW: ‘Tapping Into the Music Industry Is Not As Easy As Many Think’
Unpacking the meanings of EZOW's songs with the artist himself
by Alexandra Mansilla
8 Oct 2024
The Most Expected Music Album Releases In October 2024
Here is what to keep an ear out for in October
by Ashas Bukhari
1 Oct 2024
How Cancel Culture Around P Diddy Is Spreading. Who Is Next?
And can the crowd really cancel celebrities who were thought to be untouchable?
by Alexandra Mansilla
1 Oct 2024
The Coldplay Phenomenon: What Is the Formula Behind Their Success?
Coldplay's concerts draw massive queues, and we are exploring the secret behind their 27-year popularity
by Alexandra Mansilla
26 Sept 2024
Toqsic: ‘We Aim To Create One Of the Largest Amapiano Events In the Region’
How was the House of Yanos founded, and what exciting plans lie ahead?
by Alexandra Mansilla
21 Sept 2024
Time To Rewatch: Our Favourite Coldplay Music Videos
Preparing for the show in Abu Dhabi, January 2025
by Alexandra Mansilla
20 Sept 2024
Armin van Buuren’s ‘Pillars of Creation’: A Groundbreaking Desert Premiere
The legendary DJ presents the exclusive performance at the Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah on October 24th
by Sandy Staff
19 Sept 2024
International Music Summit: All You Need to Know
Legendary Ibiza music festival coming to Dubai this November
by Sophie She
12 Sept 2024
Navigating the Challenges In Organising Music Events In Dubai: Secta’s Insights
What’s happening behind the scenes, the things people don’t see?
by Alexandra Mansilla
3 Sept 2024
The Most Anticipated Music Album Releases For September 2024
Music you will enjoy this autumn and perhaps even beyond
by Ashas Bukhari
1 Sept 2024
Tayeb Santo: ‘The Monkey Grants Me a Social Superpower’
How does this rapper with the pink monkey behind his back create music?
by Sophie She
14 Aug 2024
The Curators Of Good Electronic Music. Interview With Secta
How four people passionate about music built a community that restarted the underground scene in Dubai
by Alexandra Mansilla
10 Aug 2024
Spin the Decks: Middle East-Based DJs To Know
Keep an eye out for these faces on posters at dance floors
by Alexandra Mansilla
3 Aug 2024
Inside Your Headphones: The Movie Music You Know By Heart
Get ready, these tunes are going to stick with you all day long
by Alexandra Mansilla
2 Aug 2024
The Most Anticipated Music Album Releases For August 2024
Summer is almost up, but that won’t stop the music
by Ashas Bukhari
1 Aug 2024
To Make Music Inspired By RPGs. Interview With Nile, the Music Producer
Now, you will find out how the Groovy Brothers make their music
by Alexandra Mansilla
29 Jul 2024
Jeftin James, Stick No Bills: ‘Our Events Are About Happiness’
The story behind local music community that will perform on Wireless this year
by Alexandra Mansilla
28 Jul 2024
Let Everyone Play Vinyl! Interview with Jayesh, Co-founder Of Vinyl Souk
Why has vinyl made a comeback, and who is the person with a collection of around 23,000 records?
by Alexandra Mansilla
25 Jul 2024
Sharing Sri Lankan Culture Globally. Interview With Beverney Shane
Also inside, you will find the answer to the question: What does Dubai sound like?
by Alexandra Mansilla
18 Jul 2024
It Is Time For Africa: Amapiano DJs To Know And Listen To
If you haven't seen these faces before, remember them
by Alexandra Mansilla
9 Jul 2024
Join the Lesson: A Brief History Of Headphones
Let's dive into the history of one of the world’s most popular gadgets
by Ashas Bukhari
6 Jul 2024
Meet the Music Curators: Middle East-Based DJs To Know
Exploring the local music scene — well-known names and fresh faces
by Alexandra Mansilla
3 Jul 2024
Inside Your Headphones: What People Listen To While Running Or Cycling
Some people belt out Miley Cyrus at the top of their lungs, while others enjoy total silence
by Alexandra Mansilla
3 Jul 2024
The Most Anticipated Music Releases Of July 2024
Keep an ear out for these music releases, and don't miss them
by Ashas Bukhari
2 Jul 2024
Your Complete Guide To All Official EURO Songs
Dear football fans, get ready to sing your hearts out
by Alexandra Mansilla
29 Jun 2024
It Was All a Dream. From Poland To Global Stages: Interview With DJ SONYA
How did she get to where she is now? All by herself
by Alexandra Mansilla
28 Jun 2024
Nouri: ‘You Have To Be Really Strong To Keep Going’
Refugee camp, a voice message from her ex, and an experience she would rather forget
by Alexandra Mansilla
12 Jun 2024
Gigs, Beirut, Pokémons. Interview With Ronin
Dive into Ronald Hajjar’s 20-year DJing journey and feel the strong spirit of the Beirut community
by Alexandra Mansilla
10 Jun 2024
Iman Naghavi: “Every Video I Make Stems From Music”
A cinematographer’s journey, influenced by Tarantino and — surprisingly — DJ Karrouhat
by Alexandra Mansilla
4 Jun 2024
From Pharmacy To Gigs. Interview With Noor, the DJ
From working in a drugstore to DJing the UAE’s biggest stages
by Alexandra Mansilla
31 May 2024
Destination Plans Alert: Summer’24 Festival Calendar
All the primo music festivals around the globe we recommend hitting up this summer
by Sophie She
13 May 2024
Please, Don’t Stop the Music: AI Apps For Musicians
These tools can help you create some sweet melodies
by Bilal Muhammad
12 May 2024
Why Do Rappers Wear Sportswear, And Will They Ever Stop?
Look into the roots of sportswear obsession in the hip-hop scene and its future perspectives
by Sana Bun
11 May 2024
Music Talk: Kito Jempere x Lobito Brigante
What happens if two DJs meet and interview each other? Let's see!
by Kito Jempere
7 May 2024
Baz Raghib Presents ‘Full Beams’. What Is It?
And is there any connection with the 'High Beams' hip-hop collective?
by Alexandra Mansilla
5 May 2024
MICRO MUTEK.AE: Last Chance To See, Listen And Get Immersed
What is going on at the iconic tech-savvy music festival?
by Sophie She
5 May 2024
Tech Talk: New Products You Should Try In May
From an ultra-light laptop to a fully customisable speaker
by Bilal Muhammad
2 May 2024
Is Uglymoss Going To Change His Name? Interview With a Rapper
From a parentless childhood, through the rejection of his music, to fame
by Alexandra Mansilla
21 Apr 2024
Bridging Cultures Through Music: Jindi's Story
What is next for Jindi? Exclusive insights into his upcoming album
by Hayley Alexander
17 Apr 2024
House Of Yanos, the Best Amapiano Experience
How did a small team of musical enthusiasts make everyone fall in love with African sound?
by Alexandra Mansilla
12 Apr 2024
20 years Of DJing. Interview With Shef Codes
From the early days of DJing with CDs to big changes after the pandemic
by Alexandra Mansilla
6 Apr 2024
A Treasure Of Egyptian Music. Interview With Dina El Wedidi
Discover all the sides of Nile region music with the perfect guide
by Alexandra Mansilla
29 Mar 2024
West Meets the Middle East At BRED Festival. Interview With Lana Lubany
What has she prepared for the neo-culture festival?
by Dianne Apen-Sadler
27 Mar 2024
BRED Is Back. The Festival's Creative Director Gives the Lowdown
What can we look forward to at the neo-culture festival by Hypebeast?
by Hayley Alexander
26 Mar 2024