XP Conversations: Maii & Zeid

In this episode of SceneNoise x XP Conversations, we sat down with Egyptian-Lebanese duo Maii and Zeid at the fifth edition of XP Music Futures in Riyadh to unpack how a chance meeting in Alexandria - and, apparently, a shared love language of food - evolved into one of the region’s most distinctive musical collaborations. 

Led by Egyptian vocalist Maii Waleed and Lebanese producer Zeid Hamdan  - widely regarded as one of the architects of the Arab underground through cult projects like Soap Kills -  the pair have spent years crafting a sound that sits somewhere between melancholic electronica, off-kilter pop, and introspective Arabic storytelling, helping push Arabic indie music into more experimental territory. 

Despite living in different countries, Maii and Zeid’s creative chemistry remains remarkably effortless, grounded as much in friendship as it is in music. During our conversation, the pair reflected on their distinctive dynamic, their collaborative process, and the making of their comeback EP ‘Manhoos’, which reunited them after a year-long hiatus. They also speak about how their friendship became the foundation of a lasting artistic partnership - sustained by trust, instinct, and, naturally, plenty of meals together. 

Watch the full interview below: