Natik Awayez’s selection in the 'Yemeni Music from the 80s' showcases Sana’ani music which developed in the middle ages and was linked to the ruling elites of the period.

This style relies on more classical instrumentation and melodies without much change over time, and incorporates repetition as a method of unravelling three mellow rhythms.

Faisal Alawi’s “Hawa El-Ghanj” is an example of this style. He is considered one of the most famous singers from Yemen whose skills on the oud were prodigious; he contributed to the incorporation of Yemeni music in wider corners of the region.

Two of Alawi's works are included in #MARSMDigital's 'Yemeni Music from the 80s' playlist, “Zaman Wallah Zaman” and “Hawa Al-Ghanj”.

The former shows a gathering where men and women take turns dancing, clapping and singing together; an ecstatic musical performance accompanied by the piercing ululations of the women in the room.

The latter is a more complicated piece exhibiting great oud mastery and rhythmic variations present in Yemeni music.

The difference between the pieces portrays the difference in the social role of music; where the music played during celebrations are more upbeat and easy flowing, the music used in a makhdara (the joint gathering to relax and chew qat) calls for contemplation.

Our playlists are more than just a collection of songs that follow a theme; they are supported by a well-researched read about the songs and singers included in each playlist.

Read more about the latest #MARSMDigital playlist, Yemeni Music from the 80s: https://marsm.co.uk/playlists/playlist-32-yemeni-music-from-the-80s-curated-by-natik-awayez/