Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Abdel Halim Hafez: The Machine Gun Has Spoken


Abdel Halim Hafez lived to sing in the 60s and 70s, the most formative years in Egyptian contemporary history. He sang for two leaders and they both loved him because he had the youth tuned in. He captured the hearts of the young people with his romantic songs and flicks where he loves the leading ladies. When they call him for a song, he answers

.Abdel Halim Hafez did a number of songs to drum up support for the leadership of that land. His songs have often inspired hope and faith in the country. Radios would play his latest songs with pride. His songs are about patriotism and being tough to the enemies. Like in the song below where he celebrates the verses of the "Gun Have Spoken", "Oh Homeland, We Are Your Troops,"

Naturally, Abdel Halim established strong friendships with many contemporary presidents and kings of the Eastern world, including Gamel Abdul Nasser of Egypt, and King Hussan from Morocco. He also had very close friendships with most Egyptian poets.

It's strange but such songs often compel people to join the army. They have an affect on young people like the 1976 defeat when the army saw a surge of volunteers who wanted to help turn the wave. Too bad he died few months short of 48 years old (liver failure). His funeral was attended by millions

عبد الحليم حافظ - البندقية اتكلمت

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