Aghani Musalsalat

In the 1970s, television drama shone brightly, contributing significantly to the rise of a tradition that gained immense popularity: the composition of distinct songs for the opening and closing sequences of television dramas. Over the years, these theme songs (intros) of series evolved into a new facet of Arabic music, sung by the most beautiful voices, with lyrics crafted by eminent poets and melodies composed by notable musicians.

Many still remember the tunes from series like “Khalti Qamasha,” “Ala El Dinia El Salam,” “Layali Al Helmeya,” “Al Mal Wal Banoun,” and “Fayez Al-Toush,” resonating with the voices of renowned singers such as Abdulhussain Abdulredha, Rashid Al Majed, Ali El Hajjar, and Mohamed El Helou. Just as this opportunity allowed accomplished actors to lend their voices and theatrical performances to these theme songs, the audience relished the vocal performances of stars like Abdulla Al Rowaished, Hayat Al Fahad, Suad Abdullah, Suad Hosny, Ahmed Zaki, Ayman Zidan, and others.

Certain series’ theme songs also included instrumental compositions without accompanying vocals, which achieved noteworthy success. Some of the most famous examples are “Darb Al Zalag,” “Al Aqdar,” “Aailat Al Haj Metwally,” “Al Jawarih,” and “Sanawat Al Daya’a.”

As a tribute to these enduring songs and musical pieces that remain etched in our memories, and as a celebration of this distinctive and beautiful art, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ali Music Hall hosted a concert on May 30th. This event transported us across the expanse of the Arab world, allowing us to relish the theme songs of Egypt, Syria, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Together, we reminisced about the impact of these melodies, led by Maestro Dr. Khaled Nouri, who directed a large musical ensemble consisting of around 50 instrumentalists and vocalists. His orchestration tailored the songs to suit the dynamic nature of live theater, distinct from television recordings.