Dattune

Dattune, a rising figure in the Saudi Arabian hip-hop scene, embodies the genre's vibrant evolution within the Kingdom. Born and raised in Riyadh, he developed an early passion for music, initially aspiring to be a violinist before shifting focus to producing and rapping. Dattune's musical journey began around 2010, a time when the hip-hop scene in Saudi Arabia was nascent. He found inspiration in artists like Nas and J Dilla, with Nas’ *Illmatic* sparking his interest in beat-making. By 2015, Dattune transitioned to rapping, initially in English, later developing a unique blend of Arabic and English. His music spans from gritty drill tracks to laid-back, '90s-inspired hip-hop, reflecting his versatility. Releases like *شبح* showcase his assertive style, while projects like *MOOSEBUMPS* highlight his jazzy, boom-bap influences. Dattune's career coincides with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which has seen significant government support for the arts, transforming the musical landscape and providing Dattune with a platform to grow as an artist.

Dattune's ascent in the Saudi music scene reflects not only his personal dedication but also the broader cultural shift within the Kingdom. He hopes to see Saudi Arabian hip-hop gain global recognition, similar to African music. His focus remains on creating music for his people while experimenting with new sounds. With a career spanning multiple projects, Dattune continues to blend cultural narratives with contemporary hip-hop, contributing to the rich musical tapestry emerging in Saudi Arabia.

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