Najat Al Saghira

Review by Maddie Loebbaka

The short:

Known for translating classical poetry into song, the multitalented Najat Al Saghira played a pivotal role in the Egyptian music scene of the 20th century.

The long:

Al Saghira was identified for her unique talent at a young age, releasing her first song at the age of 16 and continuing her music career for half a century. Her dreamy, distinctive vocals are best heard on her magnum opus, her album Elyoun El Alb. Tracks such as Ana Bashaa El Bahr and Bahlam Maak drag you into the song, with rolling tunes and notes of Arab funk and disco to keep the listener immersed in the rhythm.

To listen or not to listen:

Listen! For fans of Arab funk (or not), Al Saghira’s impact on Arab music is profound.