DUBAI: As part of a commitment to combating bullying and spreading awareness on the issue, Cartoon Network and UNICEF MENA recently teamed up with popular content creators Saudi Reporters to release the song “Be A Friend.”
Twin brothers Abdullah and Abdulaziz Bakr, popularly known as Saudi Reporters on YouTube and social media, told Arab News in an email interview that their goal was to “create a song that would resonate with those who have experienced bullying, offering them comfort and encouragement. Through the song’s lyrics and melodies, we aimed to convey a message of hope and solidarity, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their experiences.”
The award-winning duo, who most recently picked up the Favorite Team award at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards in Abu Dhabi in September 2023, said they were excited to collaborate with Cartoon Network on such an important subject.
“It allowed us to address a crucial issue like combating bullying in a creative and impactful way by using music as a medium to connect with young audiences. Through this song, we were able to leverage our platform to spread the message on the importance of fostering friendships and discouraging bullying among children, instilling valuable lessons through the power of music,” they said.
The brothers also went in about the process of creating the song, which they called a “collaborative effort.”
“Initially, we held brainstorming sessions to craft lyrics and melodies that would resonate with children and effectively convey the message of friendship and acceptance,” they said.
“We collaborated closely with Cartoon Network throughout the creative process. Their insights were important in ensuring that the track effectively addressed the issue of bullying while maintaining an uplifting and positive tone. Their input helped us strike the right balance between delivering a powerful message and creating an enjoyable listening experience for children.”
The 29-year-old brothers, known for their humorous and satirical content, established their YouTube channel in 2010, becoming one of the first Arab content creators to hit the scene.
“Our initial idea involved visiting the streets of Jeddah and interviewing people as reporters. However, at that time, people weren’t ready as they were uncomfortable with social media and YouTube being new to them. Despite this, we became known by that name and continued because it carries significance. What makes it special is that we refer to our followers as reporters too, as they are part of our family,” they said.
