Saudi Heavy Metal Band Wasted Land Makes History at Wacken Open Air
JEDDAH: In a groundbreaking move, Saudi heavy metal band Wasted Land is set to take the stage at the renowned Wacken Open Air festival, hailed as “one of the most prestigious (music) festivals on the planet” by metalheads worldwide.
Wacken Open Air, an annual hard rock and heavy metal extravaganza that draws nearly 100,000 fans to the town of Wacken in Schleswig-Holstein, will kick off in early August with a lineup of bands from across the globe.
Wasted Land secured their spot at the festival after winning the Middle East Wacken Open Air Metal Battle in Jeddah, marking the first time a Saudi band will represent the Kingdom on the international stage. The event was made possible with the support of the German Consulate and European Music Week in Saudi Arabia.
Sharing the stage with iconic metal acts like Scorpions, Amon Amarth, and Blind Guardian, Wasted Land’s lineup includes vocalist Emad Mujallid, guitarists Ayman Al-Ghamdi and Ahmed Khoja, bassist Mahmoud Al-Tayeb, and drummer Tameem Helmi.
Speaking to Arab News, Mujallid, Al-Ghamdi, and Khoja expressed their excitement about the opportunity, calling it a “dream come true” and an “unreal” experience.
“For any metal band, playing at Wacken Open Air is a dream of all time. It’s the ultimate stage where legends are gathered,” said Khoja. “We are honored to represent Saudi Arabia at such a huge global event.”
Wasted Land’s journey from the underground music scene in Jeddah to the grand stage of Wacken Open Air has been marked by challenges, lineup changes, and perseverance. Despite the obstacles, the band continues to push forward in their quest for success.
The band, which blends melodic death metal and groove metal influences, has made waves in the Saudi music scene and beyond. They have played in Egypt and Dubai, opened for international bands like Lacuna Coil and Moonspell, and featured in Saudi filmmaker Abdulrahman Sandokji’s documentary “Underground.”
With the support of the German Consulate in Jeddah and Consul General Dr. Eltje Aderhold, Wasted Land is ready to make history as they rock the stage at Wacken Open Air, showcasing the thriving music culture of Saudi Arabia.