Lately I seem to find myself doing housework to Arabic music from the 1950’s and ‘60’s. I imagine I’m declaring love that surpasses understanding or reason while I iron shirts, and asking God for patience with a lover’s thick headedness while wiping down the countertops, complete with emphatic hand gestures and head tosses.
Nancy Ajram’s “Ana Masri” / “I am Egypt”
A song beaming with pride about hailing from the land of the Nile, “Ana Masri” has become particularly symbolic after the events that took place in Cairo last year, and continue to occur till today. In spite of injustices dealt by natural disasters, lagging economies, and heads of state, “Ana Masri” reminds us of the pride we can all share for being part of our respective countries, the global community and the world.
Universal Exports
For lunch today I brought with me lavash, Syrian cheese, and labneh (sadly, I forgot tea). I’m listening to Radio Rotana Jordan Live online (far better than my local radio station) as I complete Russian homework. Tonight, I hope to pick up some Vietnamese food for dinner before I listen to my mostly near eastern music selection in Rush Hour traffic.
Why do I still live in America? It either makes no sense, or perfect sense. Which one, I’m not sure yet.
Azam Ali's new album, From Night To the Edge of Day
”I have spent a great deal of time in the Middle-East, and sadly discovered that our long standing internal prejudices in terms of religious and ethnic hierarchy have blinded us to the fact that we are one people.” This collection of lullabies is a reminder of one of the timeless bonds that all people share.”—Six Degree Records
