The year may be coming to an end but Melanie “Mel C” Chisholm continues to notch up many firsts.
Chisholm explains the selected songs were largely responsible for forming her as a performer. "I really loved musical theatre when I was growing up. I went to perform at an arts college when I was 16 and these are songs that I learnt and auditioned with," she says.
Yasalam acts
Beats on the Beach will transform Abu Dhabi’s Corniche into a two-day world music festival featuring some of the best of the Arab and western pop world. We break down all the stage action so you don’t miss out.
Illmiyah
8.25-8.55pm
One half of the pioneering Emirati hip-hop duo Desert Heat, Illmiyah will perform tracks from the duo's debut album When The Desert Speaks as well some new tunes from his forthcoming solo album Stereotyped to be released on December 2.
Clarita De Quiroz
9.15-9.45pm
A locally based, classically trained pianist, percussionist, vocalist and a model to boot, De Quiroz’s smooth pop sounds had her chosen by Elton John’s team to support him on his Abu Dhabi show earlier in the year.
Missy Elliott
11.20pm-12.05am
The five-time Grammy Award-winning rapper is one of hip-hop’s most eclectic artists. Her cutting edge sounds may have spawned a host of imitators but there is only one Missy.
Tamer Hosny
12.20-1.15am
The Egyptian heartthrob has done it all, from being a pop-star, director and producer to writing a novel. He will round off Thursday night’s performance with a fistful of upbeat hits.
Rouba
8.25-8.55pm
The Lebanese-born and UAE-based soul singer has a wealth of stage experience, having been gigging since she was 16. Her jazzy blend recalls the likes of like Nina Simone, Erykah Badu and India Arie.
Juliana Down
9.15-10pm
The country’s go-to festival band. The Dubai hard rockers are the first UAE group to sign to a major record label (Sony Music Middle East) and are renowned for their high-voltage performances.
Hani El Omary
10.15pm-11pm
Producing hits since 1990, the veteran Lebanese singer has seen his career grow with a big fan base in both the Middle East and the Gulf. Look out for the new single Mal'ouni.
Maya Diab
11.15pm-12am
After years spent hosting programmes on MTV, the Lebanese singer Diab has stepped out on her own as a bona fide solo artist. Expect to hear her debut solo single Shaklah in addition to a clutch of new songs.
Cee Lo Green
12.20-1.15am
The man of the moment. The pop-soul singer won two Grammies this year, including Best R&B song for Fool for You, as well as being a popular coach on the hit US television version of the talent show The Voice.
