Music has a profound way of touching the soul and for me, two singers hold a special place in my heart.
If I listen to Arabic songs and music, the first name that comes to mind is the legendary Majida El Roumi. On the other hand, when I immerse myself in Balochi songs, it’s the unparalleled Nooral Baloch who captivates me. Both singers have unique voices, styles and a magical ability to connect deeply with their audience.
I still vividly recall the first time I listened to Majida El Roumi was back in 1991. I was a school student in Al Khoudh and one memorable evening, my friend, who was studying at the technical college in Al Khuwair, introduced me to her enchanting voice. We were both learning English at Polyglot Institute, located near Wadi Adi’s roundabout. My friend owned a car and often gave me a ride home.
That evening, as we left our class and drove through the quiet streets, he turned on the car’s cassette player. What filled the air was a song unlike anything I had ever heard before — it was Majida El Roumi’s 'Words' ('Kalimat'). Her voice was pure magic and melody mesmerizing with a soothing rhythm. I later learned that the song’s lyrics were penned by the iconic poet Nizar Qabbani, whose words carried an emotional depth that resonated with every listener. That moment marked the beginning of my love for Majida's music.
Recently, I attended a business meeting in Al Khuwair and as I drove through the familiar roads, memories of that 1991 evening came rushing back. The nostalgia was overwhelming. Songs like 'Words' have a timeless quality, transporting you to another world and reconnecting with your soul. They offer a sense of relaxation and a much-needed pause from daily life chaos.
Similarly, my connection with Nooral Baloch dates back to 1987, when I was a schoolboy in Mahadha, Al Buraimi Governorate. Those were carefree days filled with unforgettable moments and my father’s blue Toyota Cressida was a big part of my childhood. It was in that car that I first heard Nooral Baloch’s captivating voice. The song was 'Yak Bare Dost' (One Time, My Friend), a masterpiece that left a lasting impression on me.
The song, with lyrics written by the late Murad Sahir, was a poetic journey in itself. Each word in Balochi was chosen meticulously, painting vivid images of nature and human connection. Nooral’s voice brought the song to life, weaving a melody that seemed to merge with the universe itself, with the wind, rivers, mountains, birds, moon and stars. It was as though he wasn’t just singing but becoming one with the world around him.
Both Majida El Roumi and Nooral Baloch have a remarkable ability to transcend language and culture, reaching the hearts of their listeners. Whether it’s the Arabic elegance of Majida’s voice or the Balochi soulfulness of Nooral’s melodies, they share a unique gift of storytelling through music. Nizar Qabbani’s words resonate deeply here: “Singers are our voices and we are unknown without them.”
Indeed, these two artists are not just singers but vessels of emotion, history and culture. They bring poetry to life in ways that words alone cannot achieve. Majida’s rendition of 'Words' makes you reflect on the power of love and longing, while Nooral’s 'Yak Bare Dost' reminds you of the profound beauty in simplicity and connection.
Music like this becomes a part of your identity, accompanying you through the chapters of life. As I look back on those moments — the 1991 evening when I first heard Majida’s ethereal voice and the 1987 drive when Nooral’s song touched my soul, I am reminded of the enduring magic of great music. These songs are more than melodies; they are memories, emotions and stories that define who we are.
Both singers, in their unique ways, continue to inspire and soothe me, creating a bridge between my past and present. Their music, much like the poetry of Nizar Qabbani and Murad Sahir, remains timeless, proving that great art never fades, it only grows more profound with time.
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