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Rabat – In an interview with Turkish Anadolu Agency (AA), Moroccan singer-songwriter Nouamane Lahlou shared moments of his life, career, and his opinion on classical Arabic music.
During the interview, Lahlou said that Moroccan Arabic songs are “superficial” and do not reflect the identity of his country, Turkish newspaper Daily Sabah reported January 7.
The 53-year-old singer said that for him, music should reflect the identity and culture of the country’s singer.arabic songs
“Arabic songs don’t reflect our natural identity. You cannot understand which country you are in when you listen to a [classical] Arabic song,” said Lahlou.
Lyrics, for Lahlou, are more important than melody. “Do the lyrics touch on humans and human issues and other religions, and why and how should I sing? Lyrics are more important than music.”
Read Also: Nouamane Lahlou Speaks Out About Hoceima Protests
Lahlou began his musical career at 5 years old. At the age of 11, he became a member of a musical association called “Nesaim Andalusia.”
At the age of 18, Lahlou represented his country in the US with Walt Disney, an event that marked a turning point in his life.
Lahlou wrote and sang many songs featuring Moroccan cities, such as Chefchaouen and Ouazzane in northern Morocco, Fez, Essaouira, and Marrakech. His latest song is about Zagora, a city in southeastern Morocco.
In his songs, Lahlou describes “the beauty of the nature, ancient history and cultural heritage of the cities.”
He said that writing one song about a city takes about 1.5 years. “I do research before starting to write a song about a city,” Lahlou added.
Lahlou’s most popular works are: “Bladi Ya Zin Lboudane” (My Most Beautiful Country) and “Lamdina Laqdima” (Ancient Medina).
Lahlou revealed that his newest song will be about three religions.
