Xena ElShazli, better known as XENA, has always followed her own artistic path, often using both English and Arabic in her songwriting—a decision that has drawn some criticism in the Arab music scene. While many felt her focus on English lyrics might distance her from traditional Arabic-speaking audiences, XENA stuck to her bilingual style. This decision has paid off significantly, earning her not just recognition but a triple nomination at the prestigious Musivv Awards.
The Musivv Awards, which celebrate excellence in Middle Eastern music, had a number of Egyptian artists in the running this year. Despite the competition, XENA was the only Egyptian artist to earn three nominations at the event. She was recognized in major categories, including “Arabic Female Pop Artist of the Year” for her track “ElWoroud”, and “English Female Pop Artist of the Year” for her bilingual
hit “Remedy.” On top of that, Hala Sherif’s work on “Remedy” earned a nod for “Sound Engineer of the Year.”
These nominations are a testament to XENA’s ability to bridge the gap between Arabic and English in her music, defying critics who questioned her bilingual approach. Her success at the Musivv Awards solidifies her position as one of Egypt’s most versatile and innovative artists. With her triple nomination, XENA
has proven that embracing both languages in her music not only sets her apart but also resonates deeply with audiences across the Middle East and beyond.
