Image via Google
In recent years, the music behind Egyptian films and TV series has evolved into a storytelling force of its own, thanks to a new wave of composers who are redefining the soundscape of modern Egyptian visual media. From sweeping orchestral scores to intimate, emotional motifs, these composers are giving Egyptian cinema and drama a distinct sound, one that resonates both locally and internationally.
Hesham Nazih: The Maestro of Emotion
Hesham Nazih is arguably the most influential name in contemporary Egyptian film scores. With landmark projects like The Blue Elephant film series, Sons of Rizk, Torab Al Mas and the globally acclaimed Moon Knight (Disney+), Nazih has elevated the role of music in narrative. His ability to blend Egyptian musical heritage with cinematic grandeur creates scores that are not just background music but essential layers of storytelling.
Mina Samy: The Pulse of Youth and Drama
Rising star Mina Samy brings a fresh, modern sound that perfectly matches Egypt’s evolving TV landscape. His work on series like Lam Shamseya has garnered attention for its atmospheric layering and emotional clarity. Samy often uses minimal instrumentation to highlight character struggles, giving scenes a haunting, poignant edge.
Sary Hany: The Genre-Bender
Known for his versatility, Sary Hany moves seamlessly between styles, whether it’s urban, classical, electronic, or experimental. His work in shows like Rivo and Mamlaket Al Hareer showcases his skill at crafting immersive worlds through music. He doesn’t just accompany scenes; he builds moods that stay with the viewer long after the episode ends.
Khaled Al Kammar: Tradition Meets Innovation
Blending traditional Egyptian instruments with modern arrangements, Khaled Al Kammar stands out as a composer who honours cultural roots while pushing sonic boundaries. His scores for Leh Laa?, Khali Balek Men Zizi, and El Ekhteyar strike a balance between nostalgia and contemporary, grounding modern stories in a rich aural heritage.
Al Waili: The Underground Innovator
Al Waili has carved out a unique path as a composer, blending electronic textures with raw emotional depth. His work on projects like Zolm Al Mastaba and composing songs featured in the Ramadan series Al Harsha Al Sabaa demonstrates his ability to blur the lines between underground music and drama scoring. Al Waili’s sound is minimalist yet impactful, often utilising ambient loops, synthesisers, and subtle percussion to reflect the inner worlds of complex characters. His experimental approach brings a modern, urban edge to storytelling, making him a standout figure in Egypt’s evolving music for screen landscape.
