Gorillaz Links With Yasiin Bey And Omar Souleyman For The Absolute Banger ‘Damascus’

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Gorillaz are gearing up for a massive 2026, which will see the release of their album The Mountain and a big tour in support of it. To keep fans on the hook as they wait a couple more months for the album to drop, today (December 12), they shared “Damascus,” a collaboration with Omar Souleyman and Yasiin Bey.

The song, guided by a head-bobbing rhythm and energetic synths, is heavily influenced by Souleyman’s signature blend of electronic and traditional Syrian styles. Albarn co-wrote the track with Souleyman and Bey, and it was recorded all over the world, in Damascus, London, Devon, Mumbai, and New York.

Listen to “Damascus” above and find the The Mountain cover art and tracklist below, along with Gorillaz’s upcoming tour dates.

Gorillaz’s The Mountain Album Cover Artwork

Kong

Gorillaz’s The Mountain Tracklist

1. “The Mountain” Feat. Dennis Hopper, Ajay Prasanna, Anoushka Shankar, Amaan Ali Bangash, and Ayaan Ali Bangash
2. “The Moon Cave” Feat. Asha Puthli, Bobby Womack, Dave Jolicoeur, Jalen Ngonda, and Black Thought
3. “The Happy Dictator” Feat. Sparks
4. “The Hardest Thing” Feat. Tony Allen
5. “Orange County” Feat. Bizarrap, Kara Jackson, and Anoushka Shankar
6. “The God Of Lying” Feat. Idles
7. “The Empty Dream Machine” Feat. Black Thought, Johnny Marr, and Anoushka Shankar
8. “The Manifesto” Feat. Trueno and Proof
9. “The Plastic Guru” Feat. Johnny Marr and Anoushka Shankar
10. “Delirium” Feat. Mark E. Smith
11. “Damascus” Feat. Omar Souleyman and Yasiin Bey
12. “The Shadowy Light” Feat. Asha Bhosle, Gruff Rhys, Ajay Prasanna, Amaan Ali Bangash, and Ayaan Ali Bangash
13. “Casablanca” Feat. Paul Simonon and Johnny Marr
14. “The Sweet Prince” Feat. Ajay Prasanna, Johnny Marr, and Anoushka Shankar
15. “The Sad God” Feat. Black Thought, Ajay Prasanna, and Anoushka Shankar

Gorillaz’ 2026 Tour Dates

02/22/2026 — Los Angeles, CA @ The Hollywood Palladium
02/23/2026 — Los Angeles, CA @ The Hollywood Palladium
03/13/2026 — Bradford, UK @ Bradford Live
03/14/2026 — Bradford, UK @ Bradford Live
03/20/2026 — Manchester, UK @ Co-op Live
03/21/2026 — Manchester, UK @ Co-op Live
03/22/2026 — Birmingham, UK @ bp pulse LIVE
03/24/2026 — Glasgow, UK @ OVO Hydro *
03/25/2026 — Leeds, UK @ First Direct Arena *
03/27/2026 — Cardiff, UK @ Utilita Arena *
03/28/2026 — Nottingham, UK @ Motorpoint Arena *
03/29/2026 — Liverpool, UK @ M&S Bank Arena *
03/31/2026 — Belfast, UK @ SSE Arena *
04/01/2026 — Dublin, Ireland @ 3Arena *
04/02/2026 — Dublin, Ireland @ 3Arena *
06/05/2026 — Paris, France @ We Love Green Festival
06/06/2026 — Barcelona, Spain @ Primavera Sound Barcelona
06/10/2026 — Hradec Králové, Czech Republic @ Rock For People
06/11-13/2026 — Porto, Portugal @ Primavera Sound Porto
06/14/2026 — Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands @ Best Kept Secret
06/20/2026 — London, UK @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium *#
06/23/2026 — Zagreb, Croatia @ INmusic Festival
06/25/2026 — Athens, Greece @ Release Athens x SNF Nostos 2026
06/27/2026 — Lido di Camaiore, Italy @ La Prima Estate Festival
07/02/2026 — Roskilde, Denmark @ Roskilde Festival
07/04/2026 — Werchter, Belgium @ Rock Werchter
07/05/2026 — Luxembourg City, Luxembourg @ Luxepo Open Air
07/09/2026 — Trenčín, Slovakia @ Pohoda Festival
07/11/2026 — Aix-les-Bains, France @ Musilac Festival
07/14/2026 — Istanbul, Turkey @ Pozitif Vibrations
07/16/2026 — Istanbul, Turkey @ Pozitif Vibrations
07/18/2026 — Plovdiv, Bulgaria @ PhillGood Festival
07/23/2026 — Nyon, Switzerland @ Paleo Festival
07/25/2026 — Trieste, Italy @ Piazza Unità d’Italia
08/13/2026 — Poznań, Poland @ BitterSweet Festival
08/15/2026 — Gothenburg, Sweden @ Way Out West
08/22/2026 — Almaty, Kazakhstan @ Kazakhstan Park Live
08/29/2026 — Stradbally, Ireland @ Electric Picnic

* with from Trueno
# with Sparks

The Mountain is out 2/27/2026 via Kong. Find more information here.



source https://uproxx.com/indie/gorillaz-damascus-omar-souleyman-yasiin-bey/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.