N7S: A SONIC JOURNEY ACROSS BORDERS WITH MA-BEYN & SABINE

In a world where music often serves as both an escape and a form of resistance, N7S is a testament to the power of sound in telling stories that matter. This three-track EP, released a year ago by Lebanese rapper Sabine Salamé (@salamesabine on Instagram), Egyptian-Palestinian artist Ma-Beyn (@ma.beyn on Instagram), and Lebanese-Palestinian producer SHLTF (@krmshltf on Instagram), is more than just a collaboration, it’s a statement. Rooted in DnB-centric beats and layered with contemporary influences, N7S weaves together themes of heritage, decolonization, and the challenges of navigating the music industry as Arab women.

Each track, HWA, 7RK, and ARD, carries its own weight. ARD speaks to the deep historical ties between Egypt, Gaza, and Beirut, reminding us of a shared past that transcends the borders imposed on us. HWA and 7RK explore resilience and resistance while reflecting on the music industry from a perspective rarely heard of Arab women in rap, commanding their space in a genre often dominated by men.

The contrast between Sabine’s raw intensity and Ma-Beyn’s laid-back flow creates a dynamic fusion, making N7S a refreshing and necessary addition to the Arab hip-hop scene.

The EP’s journey has been as powerful as its message. In April 2024, just before the escalation in Lebanon, Sabine and Ma-Beyn reunited in Beirut to perform at Metro Al Madina, marking an unforgettable moment of artistic collaboration.

Their time in the city was documented in a candid photoshoot in the streets of Geitawi. The photos, embodying the energy of the EP, remained unreleased for a year as the region faced increasing instability. Now, following fragile ceasefires, the artists have decided it’s time to share them, reflecting on a year of art, loss, and resilience.

Looking back, N7S feels more relevant than ever. It stands as a musical and cultural timestamp, capturing the weight of a moment in history while keeping the pulse of resistance alive. But for Sabine, Ma-Beyn, and SHLTF, the work doesn’t stop here. Their voices remain unwavering, their message clear: art is both a refuge and a revolution, and they will continue to create, to remember, and to resist.