Oddisee (Amir Mohamed el Khalifa) is a Sudanese-American rapper, producer, and composer from Washington, D.C., known for his sharp lyricism, soulful production, and socially conscious perspective. Blending boom-bap with jazz, funk, and live instrumentation, he bridges underground hip-hop with global appeal. Rising with Diamond District, his solo work, ‘People Hear What They See’, ‘The Good Fight’, ‘The Iceberg’, has earned acclaim for its honesty and depth. A consistent, respected voice, Oddisee turns reflection into rhythm.

GassOnDecks uses tribal African roots with a modern,urban sound. His sets are spiritual journeys — immersive, bold, and unforgettable. He doesn’t just play music — he channels energy.


Roots spotlights emerging musical voices from the region and beyond, offering a stage for talent that reflects the energy and creativity of today’s music scene. This year’s program features distinct showcases, including Sounds of Sudan and Sounds of Saudi, each highlighting powerful new interpretations of traditional styles infused with contemporary influences. Audiences can also look forward to an intimate acoustic set featuring local Qatari performers alongside artists from across the Middle East. From soulful storytelling to genre-blending innovation, Roots invites you to explore the diverse soundscapes shaping the cultural heartbeat of the region and to discover the artists who are defining its future.