Kuwait’s long history as a major shipping and trading port has definitely had a role in shaping the country’s history and identity as a seafaring nation.  Having a culture so intertwined with the sea shaped every aspect of Kuwait’s society from commerce to architecture to art and cuisine.  Being one of the largest ports in the region, Kuwait has historically been a melting pot of different cultures from all over the Middle East, Africa, and India.  This unique melange of cultures couldn’t be more evident than in the nations’s music, a rich amalgamation of percussion, strings, and vocals dating back centuries.

The music of Kuwait can be categized into many genres but for the novice, three are the most prevalent-fidjeri, al-arda or al-nahma, and liwa.  The most popular, fidjeri, which originated in Kuwait’s pearl diving heyday, includes a lead singer accompanied by a chorus who sings back-up, pounds out rhythms on different drums, and claps to the beat in a range of hand movements and tempos.  Al-arda or al-nahma, both originating from the sailing culture of the region, are also popular as is the liwa style which has its roots in east Africa. 

One little known fact about Kuwaiti music is that in the 1970s Kuwait had a thriving blues scene.  Sawat, a local Kuwaiti blues style, emerged in the 70s and made Kuwait a frontrunner in the music culture of the Gulf.  This music style, which grew out of the American influence in Kuwait, saw much of the first commercially recorded albums being produced in here and went on to become some of the most popular music in the Arab-speaking world.  This music was featured on television, films, and advertisements.  Though some audio remains today, sadly much was destroyed during the Gulf War when Iraq invaded Kuwait. 

The youth of Kuwait, like the youth of every country in the world, are searching for their identities.  Through the long-held tradition of familial bonds, Kuwaiti students are emersed in the rich culture of their ancestors.  Because of this, traditional music is quite popular here, more so than in most areas of the world.  It is common for traditional singing in the fidjeri style to take place at a wedding reception or the ever-popular diwania.  This February, AIU will host several student-centered National and Liberation Day events, one being a student talent show where students can showcase their talents.  We are all looking forward to hearing the students celebrate their beautiful melodic traditions. 

Image Credits -  Samira Akil Zaman