Navigating Cairo's Underground Music Scene W/ Jana
MUSIC
Adham El Deeb
1/17/2024
Jana's adventure into the vibrant world of Cairo's underground music scene began on the bustling streets of Dokki. Jana's family raised her in an environment that encouraged openness and cultural curiosity, giving her the ability to delve deeply into the complexities of Egyptian culture. These formative experiences formed her artistic identity, influencing a music style distinct from the numerous musicians and artists inhabiting Cairo's lively streets.
Journey into DJing and Music Production
Moving from the strings of a guitar to the complexities of Ableton Live constituted a turning point in Jana's musical development. on 2019, she immersed herself on the skill of DJing, developing a thorough mastery of the trade. Jana improved her talents in the studio while navigating the unpredictable world of music production. The climax of this voyage was the electrifying atmosphere of her debut show at Cairo Jazz Club, which marked the beginning of her influential presence in the emerging underground music scene.
Developing C0d3X R3C0RDS and Future Goals
Beyond personal artistic interests, Jana's vision included the establishment of C0D3X R3C0RDS - more than a label, a community platform that promotes multidisciplinary arts in the regional context. C0d3X aims to be a cultural hub, exhibiting and supporting the many talents of Cairo's electronic scene. The initiative aspires to make a lasting impression on Egypt's underground electronic environment through a varied range of activities, including compilation CDs, live set sessions, and multi-dimensional events. Jana aspires to make her artistic work more consistent, expressive, and globally relevant. The ambition is to travel the world, giving performances that cross borders and including more original compositions into her shows, ultimately establishing a lasting legacy in the global electronic music scene.
The Bright Future of Cairo's Underground Music Scene
The trajectory of Cairo's underground music culture is quite promising, particularly in the dynamic field of drum and bass. Jana envisions a future with more legitimacy, resulting in a sustainable habitat for artists and organizations. This vision entails overcoming the hurdles associated with the frequently illegal character of events, paving the way for a thriving economy. As the scene evolves, the potential for international recognition grows, all while retaining the music's distinct Egyptian flavor.
Proud Moments and Achievements
Reflecting on her brief but influential career, several milestones stand out as sources of great pride. Among them is the achievement of getting her first international gig in Beirut, which demonstrates the spreading impact of Egypt's music and art culture on the adjacent region. These experiences highlight Jana's creative pursuits' global resonance, as well as the possibilities for cross-cultural collaboration in the larger musical scene.
Advice to Emerging Artists
Jana's advice for budding musicians navigating Cairo's electronic arena is based on sincerity and endurance. She advises them to stay true to their own musical interests, rehearse consistently, and release content on a regular basis. Embracing the creative process with enthusiasm and resilience, while avoiding the demands of external opinions, is essential for carving out a unique presence in Cairo's lively electronic scene.
Legacy and Future Leadership
In considering the larger picture of Jana's artistic journey, the goal is to leave a legacy that goes beyond the temporal limitations of the present. Beyond the immediate impact of performances and projects, she aspires to create creative compositions that will define the future of Egyptian electronic music. Discovering and supporting upcoming artists is an important aspect of this ambition, as is leaving a legacy not only as an artist but also as a leader who contributed significantly to the evolution of the MENA underground music scene. The journey is ongoing, and the ultimate goal is to create a thriving and sustainable community that will thrive well into the future.

