Ready or not, it’s time to party with Vogue Arabia! The most anticipated festival of the year, Hai Vogue is almost here. On February 8 and 9, we are taking over the picturesque neighborhood of Al Balad in Saudi Arabia for a two-day block party that brings together the best that Saudi Arabia — and the world has to offer. Expect incredible food, international and local fashion, art installations, musical experiences and much more at the celebration. Among our stellar line-up of musicians is none other than superstar Saudi rapper $kinny, who will meet guests at the Hai Vogue venue and also treat them to his very first public performance in Jeddah. Before you catch him live, here are five facts you never knew about the artist. Get all the details season below, and buy your Hai Vogue tickets here.
Photo: Instagram.com/skinny
5 things you need to know about Sami Hamed, aka $kinny!
He is half-Saudi and half-American
$kinny was born to a Saudi father and an American mother, and this mix of cultures is a prevalent theme in most of his songs. With his music, the artist aims to bridge the gap between his Arab and western roots whilst simultaneously showcasing the beauty of his Saudi heritage to fans in Los Angeles.
His music journey started in 2014
Hamed’s musical journey started in 2014 when he caught the attention of Warner/Chappell Music thanks to his lyrical talents and unique sound, both of which were put under the spotlight via his debut mixtape, “Ghetto Disneyland”.
He has collaborated with the iconic producer Swizz Beatz
The talented maverick has worked with some world-renowned musicians, among which is American record producer and rapper Swizz Beatz. The duo collaborated on a song titled “Saudi Most Wanted”, which in true $kinny style featured the rapper in traditional Saudi garments, along with chunky gold jewelry — the perfect blend of both of his cultures.
His song “Never Snitch (Alhamdulillah)” ranked No. 1 on Apple Music Middle East
The rapper released “Never Snitch (Alhamdulilah)”, in 2019 which went viral, and earned the No.1 spot on Apple Music Middle East across all genres, garnering the attention of thousands. The artist also received over 23 million views on YouTube and became a hot topic on TikTok thanks to this one track.
$kinny is also the founder and CEO of 966 Entertainment
The talented artist has also launched his own record label, 966 Entertainment, to pioneer Saudi and Arab culture globally.
Vogue Arabia is taking over Jeddah’s Al Balad for a one-of-a-kind block party at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. On February 8 and 9, 2024, join us at Hai Vogue, where we will turn the spotlight on Saudi’s spirited youth and creative community, framed by the unique architecture and spirit of this historical neighborhood. Buy your tickets here.
