In 2023 and 2024, Libyan rap thrived, fueled by the country’s socio-political challenges. With a backdrop of instability, economic struggles, and recent disasters, rap became a voice for the youth. The Benghazi Sommer Festival marked a turning point, enabling local artists like MC Mansour Unknown to perform in their hometown. However, recent regulations imposed by authorities in Eastern and Western Libya have restricted this creative expression, citing concerns over moral values and content. Musicians now face strict scrutiny and must breach bureaucratic barriers to perform, jeopardizing the artistic scene's future.
This week, first the eastern, and then the Western authorities clamped down on the popular music genre. "The spread of rap songs, some of which contain obscene words, violate the moral values of the Libyan Muslim society," a statement by the Eastern administration said.
Last August, the Eastern administration under General Khalifa Hiftar gave their okay for the first Benghazi Sommer Festival in 15 years. For the Benghazi-born rapper MC Mansour Unknown, it was the first opportunity ever to perform on stage in his hometown.
Libyan rap has also been quick to flourish as authorities were fairly easy going. Pop up concerts and other rap events have been attracting ever larger audiences.
This could have been the last time. Rap musicians in the east have to obtain permission from the Benghazi-based Ministry of Interior, whereas artists in the West have to get this from the Tripolis-based Ministry of Culture.
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