DHAHRAN: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, or Ithra, is honoring the legendary composer and singer Mohammed Abdul Wahab with a multi-day grand musical event, “Abdul Wahab: A Tribute to a Legend.”
The first show was held on Wednesday evening and will be performed live nightly until Feb. 8 at the Ithra Theater.
With a career spanning more than six decades, the Egyptian icon famously bridged the authenticity and rich heritage of Arabic music for generations — decades after his death.
Under the direction of Maestro Hisham Gabr, the event promises a masterful blend of classical and contemporary arrangements, breathing new life into Abdul Wahab’s most iconic compositions.
Archival footage played on a screen as the musicians performed live.
The performance featured a selection of Abdul Wahab’s timeless works, including “Khayef Aool Elly Fe Alby,” a 1929 classic with lyrics by Ahmed Abdel Mageed, originally performed by the composer himself. Another beloved piece, “Ya Mesafer Wahdak,” first performed in 1942 with lyrics by Hussein Elsayed, was also brought to the stage.
The concert includes “Amal Hayati,” a song immortalized by the legendary Umm Kalthoum in 1965 with lyrics by Ahmed Shafeek Kamel. The poetic masterpiece “Aghadan Alqak,” written by Alhady Adam and performed by Umm Kalthoum in 1971, further highlights Abdul Wahab’s remarkable ability to compose for the greatest voices of his time. A lighter, yet equally memorable piece, originally performed by Fouad Al-Mohandes in 1966 with lyrics by Hussein El-Sayed, adds a touch of charm to the evening’s repertoire.
The audience was treated to three Egyptian soloists; Mohamed Shatta, Ahmed Nasser and Hanan Essam, who came together for the grand finale song which got the entire crowd on their feet.
They ended with the romantic ballad “Ahwak,” made famous by Abdelhalim Hafez in the late 1950s, and which showcases the deep emotional resonance of Abdul Wahab’s compositions.
“I was singing along — we love Abdul Wahab. I always enjoyed his music,” attendee Amira Kashgary told Arab News after the show.
“I really enjoyed tonight’s concert because it was an opportunity to see Abdul Wahab, who represents an icon in Arabic culture, Arabic music. I grew up with his music. He is a musician for all generations.
“The performance was great, excellent in so many ways. The orchestra was fantastic,” she said.
“Ithra is really a cultural establishment that nourishes our souls and minds, and bodies as well,” she added.
