Iraqi Singer Kazem Al-Saher Shines at Saudi Cultural Festival
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Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The “Between Two Cultures” festival, a party of the rich artistic and past ties between Saudi Arabia and Iraq, concluded its second edition with a powerful performance by iconic Iraqi singer Kazem Al-Saher. The December 18th to 31st festival, themed “Stories to be told for a lasting legacy,” drew large crowds eager to experience the cultural exchange.
Al-saher’s concert was a highlight, captivating the audience with his timeless melodies and emotional delivery. He performed beloved classics like “Laila” and “The Despot,” along with fan favorites “Ya Sakinet Our Neighborhood” and “Ana and Laila.” The most poignant moment arrived when he sang ”Peace be upon you, upon my ridicule,” a song that visibly moved both the artist and his listeners.
A Tribute to Iraqi Poet Hatem Al-Iraqi
The festival also paid tribute to the late Iraqi poet Hatem Al-Iraqi, an event attended by Al-Saher himself. This tribute resonated deeply, particularly following a heartfelt message from the poet’s daughter, Shaima, on the X platform.Shaima expressed her gratitude, stating, “All thanks and thankfulness to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for honoring the late, great poet Karim Al-Iraqi, and thanks go to the organizers of the Between Two Cultures Festival ceremony in its new version, which was revived by Tsar Kazem Al-Saher in Riyadh.”
The “Between two Cultures” festival, under the auspices of the Saudi Ministry of Culture, showcased a diverse range of cultural experiences. Art exhibitions provided a visual journey through the shared history of Saudi Arabia and Iraq, while interactive workshops and traditional Iraqi hospitality demonstrations offered immersive cultural encounters. A special section, “Al-Mutanabbi Street,” explored the enduring influence of the renowned Iraqi poet on Arabic literature.
The festival’s success underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and exchange, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of fostering international understanding and celebrating shared cultural heritage. The event served as a powerful reminder of the unifying power of art and culture, bridging geographical divides and fostering appreciation for diverse traditions.
Renowned Arab singer Defends Young Artists Against Online Criticism
Celebrated arab singer Kazem El Saher has stepped into the fray, defending young musicians against the wave of online criticism and negativity they often face. In a powerful statement, El Saher, known for his decades-long career and significant influence in the Arab music world, called for a more supportive and nurturing environment for emerging artists.
El Saher’s comments come amidst a growing concern about the impact of social media on young artists. The relentless pressure to achieve instant success and the often-harsh criticisms they face online can be detrimental to their mental health and career development. His plea resonates with manny in the U.S. music industry, where similar challenges are faced by aspiring musicians.
“They should not be attacked,” El Saher stated emphatically,highlighting the need for empathy and understanding within the artistic community. His words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of fostering a supportive ecosystem where young talent can flourish without the fear of constant online judgment.
The issue extends beyond the Arab world. In the United States, the rise of social media has created a similar environment where young musicians are frequently subjected to harsh criticism and online bullying. Many artists have spoken out about the negative impact of this phenomenon on their well-being and creative process. El Saher’s statement provides a powerful international perspective on this increasingly prevalent issue.
El Saher’s call for a more supportive environment for young artists is a timely and crucial message, not only for the Arab world but also for the global music community. His advocacy underscores the need for a more compassionate and constructive approach to nurturing emerging talent in the digital age.
iraqi singer Kazem Al-Saher Shines at Saudi Festival
Renowned Iraqi singer Kazem Al-Saher captivated audiences at the “Between Two Cultures” festival in Riyadh, solidifying its success as a celebration of Saudi-Iraqi cultural exchange.
Bridging Cultures Through Music
Dr. Layla Al-Amin, Professor of Middle eastern music and Culture at the University of California Los Angeles, joins us today to discuss the importance of Kazem Al-Saher’s performance and the broader impact of the “Between Two Cultures” festival.
World Today News: Dr. Al-Amin, Kazem Al-Saher’s performance at the festival has been praised for its emotional depth and the nostalgic connection it evoked for many. what do you make of his impact on the cultural landscape, especially in the context of this specific event?
Dr.Layla Al-Amin: Al-Saher is more than just a singer; he’s a cultural icon.His music transcends borders and generations. Performing at a festival dedicated to Saudi-Iraqi relations adds another layer of significance. It symbolizes a willingness to bridge divides through shared cultural experiences, and Al-Saher’s passionate delivery amplifies that message.
World Today News: The festival wasn’t solely focused on musical performances.It boasted a range of cultural experiences, including art exhibitions and demonstrations of Iraqi hospitality. How crucial is it to have such a multi-faceted approach when aiming to foster cultural understanding?
dr. Layla Al-Amin: cultural understanding can’t be achieved through a single medium. It requires immersing oneself in the tapestry of a culture – its art, its traditions, its everyday life. The “Between Two Cultures” festival brilliantly recognizes this by offering a diverse range of experiences. It invites people to engage with Iraqi culture on multiple levels, creating a more holistic understanding.
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Honoring Legacy and Fostering Dialog
world today News: the festival paid tribute to the late Iraqi poet Hatem Al-Iraqi. Can you speak to the importance of honoring literary figures like Al-Iraqi in such a setting?
Dr. Layla Al-Amin: Honoring literary figures like Hatem Al-Iraqi is crucial. It validates their contributions to cultural heritage and keeps their legacy alive for new generations. It also provides an possibility to explore the connections between literature, music, and cultural identity.
World Today News: Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030” emphasizes cultural diplomacy.How triumphant do you think initiatives like “Between Two Cultures” are in fulfilling those broader national goals?
Dr. Layla Al-Amin: Events like these are vital in achieving the objectives of ”Vision 2030.” they showcase Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural exchange and its desire to build bridges with its neighbors. By fostering dialogue and celebrating shared heritage, these initiatives pave the way for stronger relationships and understanding between cultures.
World Today News: Dr. Al-Amin, thank you for providing your insights into this crucial cultural event. The “Between Two cultures” festival seems to have resonated with audiences, offering a glimpse into the power of cultural diplomacy and the importance of artistic expression in bridging cultural divides.
