The 90s' "Makhawi Al-Layl" ignites Riyadh's winter with authentic music
The current edition of Riyadh Season witnessed an exceptional artistic evening that broke the chill of the weather with the warmth of emotions and memories. The Abu Bakr Salem Theater hosted the " Nineties Nights Encounter " concert last Thursday evening. Organized by Benchmark, the concert was more than just a fleeting musical evening; it was a journey through time, reviving memories of a golden era in the history of Saudi song. A massive audience filled the theater and interacted with unparalleled enthusiasm.
The 90s art phenomenon
This evening's significance stems from the profound symbolism of artist Khaled Abdulrahman, nicknamed "Makhawi Al-Layl" (Companion of the Night), for the generation of the 1990s in the Kingdom and the Gulf. During that era, his musical releases constituted a unique artistic and social phenomenon, characterized by the simplicity and emotional depth of his melodies and lyrics, which resonated deeply with the youth of the time. This concert serves to solidify the enduring legacy of those works, which have stood the test of time, and to reaffirm that genuine art remains firmly rooted in the collective memory, regardless of the passage of years and the evolution of musical styles.
Saad Jumaa... The authenticity of folk art
The evening began with a special performance by Saad Jumaa, one of the most prominent Saudi voices who has preserved the identity of folk songs. Jumaa presented a musical set that blended melodiousness and pathos, showcasing his unique vocal abilities and his distinctive style that combines fast rhythms with soulful melodies, thus preparing the audience to eagerly anticipate the main segment.
Khaled Abdulrahman turns the pages of memories
In the highly anticipated segment, the iconic artist Khaled Abdulrahman, a master of emotional expression , took to the stage to perform a selection of his timeless masterpieces. He opened his set with "Baqaya Jrouh" (Remnants of Wounds), a landmark in his career, then moved gracefully between "Sarhini" (Tell Me), "Thikra" (Memory), "Bila Mi'ad" (Without an Appointment), and "Khabarouh" (Tell Him). The audience's enthusiastic recitation of the lyrics from memory was remarkable, a testament to the continuity of generations. The audience wasn't limited to those who grew up in the 90s; it also included younger generations who had discovered the magic of these songs.
Riyadh Season and the Revival of Artistic Heritage
Riyadh Season deserves credit for its prominent role in enriching the cultural and artistic landscape by dedicating themed evenings to celebrating icons of Saudi and Arab art. These events are not merely for entertainment; they play a vital role in documenting musical heritage and presenting it in a contemporary style that resonates with audience expectations, thus enhancing Riyadh's position as a global tourist and entertainment destination capable of blending tradition with modernity. Despite the chilly winter weather in Riyadh, the warmth of the encounter between "Makhawi Al-Layl" (a popular Saudi singer) and his audience created an artistic experience that will remain etched in memory for a long time.
