JEDDAH: Unveiling the Mystique of Arabic Vinyl Records with Saudi DJ Yaser Hammad
The timeless ritual of visiting record stores to unearth original Saudi and Arabic vinyl records ignites a fire within Yaser Hammad, a Saudi DJ with a passion for Arabic musical treasures.
Preferring the title of a selector over a traditional DJ, Hammad sets himself apart from the crowd by introducing audiences to classical songs that may be new to them. He believes in the art of vinyl DJing, which goes beyond just playing music – it’s about carrying physical songs that hold immense value.
In a world dominated by digital formats, Hammad’s vinyl DJing approach adds a unique quality to his performances, creating a distinct ambiance for his listeners.
Amid changing online and digital music trends, Saudi DJ Yaser Hammad, known professionally as Adulsamee3 Allamee3, is upholding the tradition of vinyl. (Supplied)
Hammad’s music selection varies depending on the venue and audience, often focusing on Hijazi female singers and renowned Saudi artists to resonate with his heritage and cultural roots.
The DJ’s love for Saudi classics and cultural preservation through music is fueled by his education and research into the rich history of Saudi singers.
Hammad’s journey into the world of vinyl records began during his time in film school in Los Angeles, where he discovered Arabic records at the world-renowned record store, Amoeba.
Amid changing online and digital music trends, Saudi DJ Yaser Hammad, known professionally as Adulsamee3 Allamee3, is upholding the tradition of vinyl. (Supplied)
After connecting with fellow music enthusiasts in Cairo and Beirut, Hammad returned to Saudi Arabia and met his mentor, Mohannad Nassar, a local vinyl DJ known as Vinyl Mode, who encouraged him to share his collection through DJing.
Embracing Analog in a Digital World
Hammad’s DJ journey kicked off with his first performance at Medd Cafe in Jeddah, leading to virtual platforms during the lockdown where he explored new ways to experiment with his music.
Despite challenges, Hammad’s performances through vinyl offer a unique analog experience, enhancing the audience’s connection to the music.
I enjoy exploring record shops worldwide for Arabic music, uncovering unique stories like discovering Umm Kulthum’s classics in Annecy, France, pressed by Arab migrants with superior quality.
Yaser Hammad, Saudi vinyl DJ
Traveling the world in search of Arabic music, Hammad cherishes personal interactions with shop owners and the stories behind each record.
His deep connection to Saudi music led him to discover rare vinyls of folk Saudi singers during the COVID-19 pandemic, fostering a vibrant community of Saudi music collectors.
Yaser Hammad, Saudi vinyl DJ
Hammad’s passion for music extends to his work as a film director, where music inspires his storytelling and helps him curate unique mixes that resonate with his audience.
Despite his upbringing on 2000s Egyptian and Lebanese pop music, Hammad’s exploration of various Arabic music genres introduced him to traditional Saudi singers, providing a newfound sense of representation and connection.
Performing under the moniker Adulsamee3 Allamee3, Hammad has graced significant events and venues within the Kingdom and internationally, upholding the tradition of vinyl in a digital age.
His cultural plea to Saudis is to cherish their heritage, particularly their music culture, by preserving old cassette tapes, CDs, vinyl records, and other musical artifacts.
To experience Hammad’s eclectic collections, tune in to his SoundCloud show, Sama3i, for mesmerizing listening sessions.