Katrina Campos

Pan-Arab and International Recognition: Study of Music & Politics

Introduction

We will look at two Arab musicians who have achieved recognition, are known internationally and across Arab countries and diasporas:

• Umm Kulthum
• Marcel Khalife

We will also compare and contrast their political involvement, how music is used through this involvement and how it is reflected in their music.

Umm Kulthum

• Egyptian singer, sometimes referred to as Kawkab al-Sharq ("Star of the East")
• Known for being passionate and emotive
• Vast repertoire of sentimental, religious, and nationalistic songs

Political Involvement:

• Supported Egyptian Independence through songs:
  • Nashid al'Jami'ah (The University Anthem)
  • Sa'alu Qalbi (Ask My Heart)
• Sang in support of Gamal Abdel Nasser:
  • Wallahi Zaman, Ya Silahi (It's Been a Long Time, O Weapon of Mine) [Instrumental]
• Toured all over the Arab countries and diasporas to raise money for the Egyptian army after their defeat in 1967

Marcel Khalife

• Lebanese singer and oud player
• A lyrical composer and collaborates with Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish
• Seeks to break Arabic song stereotypes and to renew its character.

Political Involvement:

• Refused to participate in the 2001 Womadelaide Festival as a testament against "the arrogance of Israel and its relentless massacre and bombing of the people of Lebanon and Palestine" and the Israeli government who had sponsored an artist to perform in the same festival
• Was named UNESCO Artist for Peace on 2005 and has pleaded for a stand against Israel's aggression towards Lebanon and Palestine
  • Ana Amshi (I Walk)

Ana Amshi (English Translation)

With straight posture I walk
with head up hish I walk
I have an olive branch in my hand
and on my shoulder my coffin
as I walk and walk

My heart is a red moon
My heart is an orchard with sweet basil and boxthorn
My lips are a sky that rains fire on occasion,
but often love.
I have an olive branch in my hand
and on my shoulder my coffin
as I walk and walk

With straight posture I walk
With head up high I walk
I have an olive branch in my hand
and on my shoulder my coffin
As I walk and walk and walk

Compare and Contrast

Similarities

• Music of resistance.
• Use their music to uplift their country and identity
• Against hegemony (Britain and Israel)
• Both are politically explicit and implicit:
  • Protest and actions are explicit
  • Songs are implicit (musical symbolism)

Differences

• Umm Kulthum = Politics of Music
• Marcel Khalife = Music of Politics

Conclusion

• Pan-Arab and Internation Recognition achieved through political involvement and catalyzed by media and touring.