Ziad Karimeh’s journey into the music industry began humbly at the age of 17, spinning tracks as a DJ. Fueled by an insatiable passion for music, he pursued his dream while completing his education. In 1995, after graduating from university, Ziad took a leap of faith and moved to Saudi Arabia. This decision marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would influence the music industry in the MENA region for decades to come.
The Saudi Arabia Chapter: Building a Legacy
Ziad’s professional career took flight when he joined Music Master, a leading production company in Saudi Arabia. This role honed his skills in music production and business strategy. His next big break came in 2001 when he joined Viva Entertainment, the official Warner Bros. agency and a hub for international labels. At Viva, Ziad was instrumental in signing third-party deals with top artists and labels, helping to bring their music to the MENA region.
Co-Founding Platinum Records: A Game-Changer
In 2006, Ziad co-founded Platinum Records in partnership with MBC. This innovative record label became a powerhouse for creating and promoting new artists. Under Ziad’s strategic leadership, Platinum Records introduced fresh talent to the market and significantly expanded the region’s music industry landscape. This achievement cemented his reputation as a visionary in the field.
A Homecoming and the Birth of MasterGate
After spending nine years in Saudi Arabia and seven years in the UAE, Ziad returned to his home country of Lebanon in 2010. Recognizing a gap in the market for comprehensive music services, he launched MasterGate. The company quickly established itself as the leading provider of marketing strategies and campaigns for music releases in the MENA region.
MasterGate’s success stems from Ziad’s ability to blend creativity with business acumen. Over the years, the company has collaborated with over 50% of Arabic artists and top global companies. Ziad’s keen insight into artist branding, target audiences, and project management has made him a trusted consultant for artists aiming to carve their identities in the competitive music industry.
Mastering the Art of Star Creation
Ziad’s expertise extends beyond marketing and promotion. He has a unique talent for creating the identity of new artists, helping them shape their direction and establish connections with their target audiences. Artists across the MENA region have sought his guidance to prepare and present their work effectively. His ability to fine-tune every detail of an artist’s journey—right from conceptualization to execution—sets him apart in the industry.
Challenges and Triumphs Along the Way
The path to success has not been without challenges. Ziad navigated the complex dynamics of the entertainment industry, including evolving consumer preferences, the rise of digital platforms, and intense competition. Yet, his resilience and adaptability have allowed him to overcome these hurdles.
One of his biggest challenges was establishing MasterGate in Lebanon during a period of regional and economic instability. Despite the odds, Ziad’s leadership and vision turned the company into a trusted name in the industry.
Looking Ahead: MasterGate’s UAE Relaunch
Today, Ziad Karimeh is poised for a new chapter as he prepares to relaunch MasterGate in the UAE. With over 30 years of experience, he plans to introduce innovative services tailored to the needs of modern artists and audiences. His relaunch aims to solidify MasterGate’s position as a leader in music services while embracing emerging technologies and trends.
This relaunch also underscores Ziad’s commitment to supporting the music community. By combining his deep industry knowledge with cutting-edge strategies, he hopes to inspire a new generation of artists and reshape the future of the music industry in the region.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Ziad’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and vision. From starting as a young DJ to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur, his journey offers invaluable lessons to aspiring artists and industry professionals.
As he continues to shape the music industry, Ziad Karimeh remains dedicated to fostering creativity and helping artists achieve their dreams. His work stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that with determination and the right strategy, the sky is the limit.
Conclusion
Ziad Karimeh’s legacy is one of innovation, resilience, and excellence. Through MasterGate, he has transformed the music business in the MENA region, empowering countless artists and setting new industry standards.
As he embarks on the next phase of his journey, the world eagerly awaits the impact of his expertise and vision. For Ziad Karimeh, the music never stops—it only gets better. Do follow him on Instagram.
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