Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The highly anticipated Soundstorm 2024 opened with a spectacular celebration, blending legendary performances, vibrant cultural showcases, and a historic tribute to Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Now in its fifth year, Soundstorm has cemented its status as one of the world’s premier music festivals, transforming the Riyadh desert into a dynamic epicenter of music, energy, and celebration.
An Unforgettable Opening Night: The festival’s electrifying first night saw breathtaking performances from global superstars Linkin Park, Eminem, Akon, and Saudi Arabian music icon Abdulmajeed Abdullah. Adding to the excitement, a special appearance by football legends Neymar, Otávio, Angelo, and Saudi football hero Yasser Al-Qahtani took the audience by storm. The evening also witnessed the unveiling of the official World Cup anthem, “Ahlan Bilaalam” (Welcome), performed by Fahad bin Fasla and Ghada Sheri, marking a moment of pride and celebration for the nation.
As dazzling fireworks illuminated the desert skies, host Yassir Al-Saggaf energized the crowd, underscoring the night’s fusion of music, sports, and cultural unity.
Legendary Performances Steal the Spotlight: The Big Beast stage became a showcase of world-class talent, beginning with Abdulmajeed Abdullah’s soulful renditions of timeless favorites like “Hala Bish” and “Yabn Elawadem.” His performance, filled with national pride and personal warmth, struck an emotional chord with the audience.
Rap icon Eminem, making his debut performance in Saudi Arabia, delivered an unforgettable set featuring classics such as “The Way I Am” and “Stan.” The crowd erupted when Skylar Grey joined him on stage for a stunning performance of “Love the Way You Lie.”
Meanwhile, Akon energized fans on the DWN Beast stage with his iconic hits, including “Right Now” and “Beautiful,” while Linkin Park captivated audiences with their signature mix of rock, metal, and hip-hop, igniting emotions with songs like “In the End.” Over in the Dance Tent, David Guetta thrilled electronic music fans with pulsating beats and a high-energy set that kept the crowd moving until late into the night.
A Night for the Fans: The vibrant energy of the fans elevated the festival experience to new heights. Coordinated phone torch waves during Eminem’s set created a magical visual display, while colorful and creative outfits inspired by festival performers added to the electric atmosphere. Interactive experiences like the Fan Jam zone allowed attendees to immerse themselves in music-making, turning fans into part of the action.
Social media buzzed with excitement, as the hashtag #Soundstorm24 trended globally, with attendees sharing snapshots and videos of their favorite festival moments.
Looking Ahead: Soundstorm 2024 is just getting started. Day Two promises another wave of unforgettable performances, with artists like A$AP Rocky, Calvin Harris, and Muse set to take the stage. Underground stages will offer an eclectic mix of emerging talent, and the night will conclude with a breathtaking fireworks display lighting up the Riyadh skyline.
As the festival continues, Soundstorm 2024 is not only a celebration of music but a testament to Saudi Arabia’s growing cultural footprint and its vision for the future.
