Music
A Note about Music
First, please be a responsible dancer and consumer. Please do not illegally copy this music from the Internet or ask to copy it from me. These artists make their livings from the sale of their music and we dancers need to support them.
We also need to support local merchants who carry belly dancing supplies. Many of the CDs are available locally here in New Orleans at Kruz's, a shop at 432 Barracks St (Barracks and Decatur in the French Quarter). See his info in his advertisement. Dance students receive 10% off at his shop. Other music is available directly from the artists themselves. I have linked in that information below so you can buy directly from the artists.
Finally, not all "belly dancing" music sounds the same. ATS music tends to gravitate towards more "authentic" music, i.e. no synthesizers or modern instruments. Some of the best ATS dance music is purely percussive or uses traditional instruments such as the ney. ATS music can also be hypnotic, almost trance-like. Alternatively, cabaret music tends to be more "pop"-ish and upbeat.
Since many of the albums are labeled in Arabic, it can be hard to find the right music for you without making a large monetary investment. On the other hand, some of the best middle eastern musicians are American and the albums are in English. Music is a highly personal choice, so choose what you like. I have listed some of my personal favorites below.
Amy's ATS Favorites - listed in no particular order
| “An Introduction to Eqyptian Rhythms”- by Hossam Ramzy, a famous Egyptian percussionist. I like this CD because he explains what each rhythm is called and why it is so named. |
| “Rhythm of the Dance” - by Solace. A MUST HAVE! This is a Southern California group led by a very talented drummer, Jeremiah Soto. His wife Rachel is a beautiful dancer and leader of her own troupe. Check out their other offerings such as “Sha’waza” and “The Gathering Season.” Many of their songs can be played before you buy them at Magnatune.com in the World Music genre. |
| “Arabic Chillout”- Various Artists- Perhaps my all time favorite. This is a dual disc set and while it is no longer in print, it is still available in some used music stores or on-line. I believe Kruz said he has managed to get a few copies, so get in touch with him for more info. |
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“Moroccan Spirit”- Various Artists- very trance-like. One of my favorites! The producer of this spent two years in Morocco and northern Africa attending tribal music festivals and recording what he heard. This is the result and it is fantastic!
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| “The Goddess Workout with Dolphina - Music from Introduction to Bellydance.” I like this CD because it is a basic CD that lets you hear the rhythms without too much other stuff getting in the way. There are no vocals on this CD, just music. |
| “Mystic Groove”- by Quango - techno arabic and Indian rhythms. This is a great "chillin'" CDs and track #5 is my favorite. |
| "Al Samoud" - self titled CD from a wonderful live band who performs in Southern California. They have a new CD coming out soon. Check out their website for ordering information. |
| “Bellydancing Breakbeats” - Oojami - very modern and fast-paced, Arabic hip-hop. Check out the song "Fantasy" which sounds as if the Joker from the Batman movies is doing some of the vocals. Kinda weird, but fun! |
| “Galactic Caravan: Intergalactic Bellydance” - more techno arabic |
| “Shiva in Exile” - sounds more eastern Indian and Oriental, but some great slow pieces on this one. |
ATS by Amy 
