Tunisia’s First Lyrical Club for Men Sparks Cultural Debate
The establishment of Tunisia’s first lyrical club for men has ignited a wave of reactions, ranging from enthusiastic support to outright criticism. Dubbed sidi sami, the club has become a focal point of discussion in cultural circles and on social media, challenging traditional norms and redefining artistic expression for men in the region.
Founded by Sami Al-Sandali, the club was initially met with skepticism. Al-Sandali, who leads a group of men in singing sessions, emphasized that the club is more than just a space for music. “It constitutes a space to empty energies and enhance social ties,” he explained. Many men, he noted, have a passion for music but lacked the opportunity to practice it in a structured environment.
The club’s journey has not been without controversy. A video showcasing its activities went viral, dividing opinions. Some hailed it as a “distinctive artistic addition,” while others viewed it as a detraction from traditional masculinity. Hassan Farhat, a critic, argued that singing is an activity “limited to women and children,” asserting that men should focus on professional artistry or sports instead.
Though, the initiative has found strong support among women. Lubna Al-Khumairi,a vocal advocate,believes that singing offers men a healthy outlet to reduce daily stress,calling it a “better option than spending time in cafes.” Amin Al-Shakhr, a club member, echoed this sentiment, stating that he remains unfazed by criticism. “Men were the main singers of ancient times,” he said, dismissing negative comments as “free and unjustified evil.”
Despite the backlash, the club’s popularity has surged. Starting with a small group, membership quickly exceeded thirty, forcing Al-Sandali to halt new requests. Now, he is transforming the club into a men’s choir, aiming to perform at Tunisian cultural festivals. This evolution underscores the club’s growing acceptance and its potential to carve a niche in Tunisia’s artistic landscape.
| Key Points | Details |
|—————-|————-|
| Founder | Sami Al-Sandali |
| Club name | Sidi Sami |
| Purpose | Singing, stress relief, and social bonding |
| Membership | Over 30 members |
| Future Plans | Men’s choir performing at cultural festivals |
The Sidi sami club’s story is a testament to the power of art to challenge societal norms. While it continues to face criticism, its success highlights a growing appetite for innovative cultural spaces in Tunisia. As Al-Sandali puts it, this initiative is not just about singing—it’s about creating a new narrative for men in the arts.
Challenging Norms: The Rise of Tunisia’s First Men’s Lyrical Club
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The establishment of Tunisia’s first lyrical club for men,Sidi Sami,has sparked a cultural debate,redefining traditional norms of masculinity and artistic expression. Founded by Sami Al-Sandali, the club has become a platform for men to explore their passion for music, relieve stress, and strengthen social bonds. Though, it has also faced criticism from those who view singing as incompatible with traditional male roles. In this interview, Senior Editor of world-today-news.com, Sarah Thompson, speaks with Dr. Karim Benali,a cultural anthropologist and expert on gender and art in North Africa,to delve deeper into the significance of this initiative and its impact on Tunisian society.
The Genesis of Sidi Sami
Sarah Thompson: Dr. Benali, the creation of Sidi Sami is undoubtedly groundbreaking.Can you share your thoughts on how this club came to be and what it represents in the Tunisian cultural context?
Dr.Karim Benali: Absolutely, Sarah. The club was founded by Sami Al-Sandali as a response to a gap in the cultural landscape. Many men in Tunisia have a deep love for music but lack structured opportunities to express it. Sidi Sami is more than just a singing group; it’s a space for emotional release and community building.This initiative challenges the stereotype that artistic expression is exclusively a feminine or childish pursuit, which is deeply ingrained in some conservative circles.
Controversy and Criticism
Sarah Thompson: The club has faced significant backlash, with critics like Hassan Farhat arguing that singing is not a ”masculine” activity. How do you interpret this resistance?
Dr. Karim Benali: this resistance reflects broader societal anxieties about gender roles. Critics like Farhat see singing as a departure from traditional masculinity, which they associate with physical strength and professional achievements. However, this perspective overlooks the past and cultural role of men in music. For instance, in ancient times, men were often the primary storytellers and musicians. The backlash against Sidi Sami is less about the activity itself and more about the fear of redefining what it means to be a man in modern Tunisia.
Women’s Support and Broader Acceptance
Sarah Thompson: Interestingly, the club has found strong support among women. Why do you think this is the case?
Dr. Karim Benali: Women like Lubna Al-Khumairi see the club as a positive outlet for men,offering an alternative to unhealthy habits like spending hours in cafes. This support highlights a growing recognition of the importance of emotional and creative expression for mental well-being. Women are often the custodians of cultural change, and their backing of Sidi Sami signals a shift toward more inclusive and progressive societal norms.
The Club’s Growing Popularity
Sarah Thompson: Despite the criticism, the club’s membership has surged, and it’s now transitioning into a men’s choir with plans to perform at cultural festivals. What does this evolution signify?
Dr. Karim Benali: This evolution is a testament to the club’s growing acceptance and its ability to carve a niche in Tunisia’s artistic scene. By transforming into a choir, Sidi Sami is taking its mission to the next level, showcasing that men’s participation in the arts can be both meaningful and publicly celebrated. It’s a bold step toward normalizing male engagement in cultural and creative activities.
Conclusion: A New Narrative for Men in the Arts
Sarah Thompson: In closing, what do you think the future holds for initiatives like Sidi Sami in Tunisia and beyond?
Dr. Karim Benali: Sidi Sami is paving the way for a new narrative where men can freely explore their artistic passions without fear of judgment. While challenges remain, the club’s success demonstrates a growing appetite for innovative cultural spaces that defy traditional norms. I believe this initiative will inspire similar projects across the region, fostering a more inclusive and diverse artistic community.
Sarah Thompson: Thank you, Dr. Benali, for your insightful analysis. It’s clear that Sidi Sami is not just a club but a movement reshaping perceptions of masculinity and art in Tunisia.
