A true star of Egyptian and Arab music will open this year's edition of Oslo World.
Hakim is known as the Lion of Egypt and the King of Jeel, the modern offshoot of Egyptian sha'bi street-pop. He is an innovator who added urban beats to a foundation of traditional melodies. His relatable, often lighthearted lyrics chronicle daily life through the rhythm of street slang. Hakim has sold more than six million records at home in Egypt, and he was the first of the young Egyptian singers to become a major figure on the international music scene, playing to sell-out crowds in Europe, the Middle East, Australia, North America, and Africa.
Born in 1962 in the village of Maghagha, Hakim began singing at school parties. By the time he was 14, he had a band, performing hits of the older sha'bi stars, adding more modern instruments, like guitar and keyboards. After a break in the 80s, studying communications and success with his band in the Minya province, Hakim decided to try his luck as a full time singer in Cairo. He recorded Al Nazra, one of the first sha’bi cassettes to include synthesizer, guitar and Western dance beats. DJs all over Cairo began playing it, and the cassette sold out in no time. Hakim became a household name, playing parties and shows, his next releases selling more and more.
In 1998, the British world/dance fusionists Transglobal Underground remixed some of his work for a disc simply entitled Hakim Remix. It was his lowest-selling record in Egypt, but made a significant impact in Europe. His releases throughout the 90’s and 2000’s varied between the music of his roots, still hugely popular in his home country and new experiments with different forms of musical fusion. It was in this period he became known as the “roi du jeel” (“king of jeel”) – an honorary title he still carries with unquestionable authority. A popular hero, a musical trailblazer and the life of every party – this is one regal visit you don’t want to miss.
