"MAHMUD BIN ASRAF - PAPAOUTAI (AFRO SOUL)"
"MAHMUD BIN ASRAF - PAPAOUTAI (AFRO SOUL)"  
Podcast: Analytic Dreamz: Notorious Mass Effect
Published On: Sat Jan 24 2026
Description: Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/Analytic⁠Join The Normandy For Additional Bonus Audio And Visual Content For All Things Nme+! Join Here: ⁠https://ow.ly/msoH50WCu0K⁠The latest Notorious Mass Effect segment from Analytic Dreamz explores the breakout viral success of emerging Afro Soul artist Mahmud bin Asraf (Mahmud Bin Asraf) and his powerful reinterpretation of Stromae's 2013 classic "Papaoutai" as "Papaoutai (Afro Soul)."Released late 2025/early 2026 via Distro Arabic LLC and featuring collaboration with Ergashov, this Afro-fusion cover preserves the original's emotional depth on absent fatherhood while infusing vibrant African rhythms and soulful energy. Directed by Mukendi, the official music video on @MahmudBinAsrafVEVO has rapidly amassed over 800,000–1 million views, with strong engagement including thousands of likes and heartfelt comments praising its soul-stirring impact that "hits the soul and the body."The track exploded organically, trending #1 in Morocco, #4 in UAE and Italy, and charting in 17+ countries on YouTube for intense short runs. Boosted by TikTok, Shorts, and third-party remixes reaching millions, it resonates deeply in North Africa, the Middle East, and African diaspora communities amid the 2026 Afrobeat/Afro Soul wave.Despite no mainstream Western chart entries or certifications, Mahmud bin Asraf's version demonstrates massive cultural resonance over commercial metrics, positioning him as a rising niche talent with breakout potential in MENA and African markets.Analytic Dreamz breaks down the song's origins, viral trajectory, regional dominance, audience reactions, and why this reimagining is captivating global listeners in this in-depth segment.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/analytic-dreamz-notorious-mass-effect/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy