New hit affirms Lebanese musician Magnum Ghandour is on right track
- 22 Aug 2023
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Dubai-based Lebanese artist Magnum Ghandour is captivating listeners with his latest release Magnesium — a hard-hitting track accompanied by a visually impactful music video. Following the success of his breakout hit Hayabusa, Ghandour here showcases his evolution as an artist, combining electronic and trap elements with his signature deep and raspy voice that have come to the notice of fans. Written by Ghandour himself and produced by Mohamed “Yungdroown” Ahmed, Magnesium includes the surreal and energetic essence that defines the singer’s music. With a clever play on words, the name ‘Magnesium’ not only symbolises his own stage name, but also hints at the chemical energy Ghandour brings to the track and music video. Listeners opine that the chorus of Magnesium transforms into an anthemic experience, with powerful vocals shining through, even as the infectious repetition of “Yeah Yeah” resonates with them.
Magnesium is backed by a thunderous beat: the song propels forward with unstoppable force, leaving the audience captivated by its infectious hook. The music video that accompanies is visually gripping and immerses viewers in a post-apocalyptic world. Set in a laboratory, it symbolises Ghandour’s artistic transformation - complementing the track’s aggressive energy and its dark and gritty atmosphere.
With Magnesium, Ghandour demonstrates his growth as an artist, fearlessly pushing boundaries by delivering a track that exudes boldness. The explosive energy and captivating visuals of Magnesium are destined to make quite an impact as they make bigger ripples, solidifying his position as an undeniable presence in the music scene.
Ghandour is an innovative artist known for his dynamic musical style influenced by a diverse range of regional and western music genres. With a fusion of modern rock and hip-hop elements, he has carved his own niche in the music scene of the region. As a multi-talented singer, songwriter and producer, he seamlessly blends melodic guitar riffs, impactful beats, and introspective lyrics. Highlighted by notable tracks such as Hayabusa, Mani Fadi, Meet Se3a and the latest release Magnesium, Ghandour’s discography demonstrates his artistic growth and will to push creative boundaries. Gulf Today tracks the musician
How have you evolved as an artist?
At the beginning of my musical journey, I was exploring different styles, techniques and different platforms to express myself. I experimented a lot, learnt from others, and was just trying out by adding music to my vlogs on my YouTube channel. Sometimes I would post music on Instagram. A lot of practice then came along; a lot of rehearsals and a lot of time spent in the studio. I also tried to take every opportunity I could to perform my own original music on any stage I could, to further help me find my voice. I am getting more comfortable and confident in my genre and style, and I am at a stage where I am able to be more creative and open to new ideas, and collaborate with other creatives, whether artists, producers or filmmakers. With Magnesium, I was able to work harder and deeper into the concept and the overall theme of myself as an artist, my stage name, my sound and my overall style - and it only hints at what’s to come after. I also understand that my evolving as an artist is a continuous process; I’m very excited for all that is to come.
Can you say a few words about your relationship with producer Mohamed “Yungdroown” Ahmed?
Mohamed “Yungdroown” Ahmed is a beat-maker and producer I’ve been working with for all of my releases. Although he makes some darker sounding, more rage-style music, or as I like to call it “Moss-style” music, Yungdroown has been changing and adapting his style with me. He has played a role in shaping every single one of my songs. Beyond the technical aspects, Yungdroown and I have a very “Let’s do it” type of relationship; we are always ready to go the extra mile to make something more special.
What was the inspiration behind your lyrics for Magnesium?
The lyrics of my song Magnesium are inspired by my father, a chemical engineer, as well a play on words on my stage name “Magnum”. When my father would take me to chemical factories as a child, I loved the idea that a chemical compound could be created to achieve a certain purpose or result. In the song, I also speak about the growth and strength I have built both mentally and physically while growing as an artist. There’s a lyric where I say “Fitna 3al Scene, Ghayarna El Screen” hints at how I came in the scene with a new and different sound.
How has the UAE influenced you as a musician?
The UAE is an awesome place to be, and has given me more opportunities that I could’ve ever asked for. The safety and comfort of living here also allowed me to reach deeper parts of my artistic side and expand upon it. The thriving music scene here has definitely influenced me heavily. Before I started, rappers such as Freek paved the way for artists like me; but they also gave me bigger reasons to start taking music seriously. There is place for growth, especially if given the right time and effort. Dubai is the city of the future, the city of acceptance and change, and my home. I hope to give back to it, just as much as it gave to me.