Cairo Opera House to Commemorate Wahab Anniversary on May 14

A live concert in commemoration of the 30th death anniversary of the legendary musician Mohamed Abdel Wahab will be held on Sunday night at the Cairo Opera House.

Under the direction of Maestro Hazem Al-kasbgy, Sarah Zaki, May Hassan and Mohamed Tarik will perform a selection of Abdel Wahab's remarkable songs and iconic pieces, reminding people of the legacy and spirit of the late singer and composer.

The concert includes pieces like 'Hakim Ayoun', 'Amal Hayati' and 'Enta Omry'.

Born in Bab El-Sherya district, Cairo, he made his artistic career as a young singer in Fwazy Al Gazirly’s music band and began composing his own style of Egyptian film musical after visiting Paris and familiarizing himself with French musical film.

Throughout his long-standing career, the late musician featured in many films and composed more than 1820 songs.

Abdel Wahab, who is seen as the most renowned name in the history of Egyptian Music, joined Egyptian Radio upon its inception in 1934, and was one of the first artists to join the station.

At that time, the talented artist participated in several films, however, he decided to devote herself to singing completely.

The remarkable star was honored by many political and social leaders including, Gamal Abd-El-Naser and Anwar Al-Sadaat.

All Egyptians knew about his talent as a singer as well as a composer. At all times, he was highly appreciated by the people. He received numerous awards for his artistic achievements.

He played the leading role in his only seven movies: The White Rose (1933), ‘Doumou’ El Hub’ (Love’s Tears) (1936), ‘Yahya El Hub’ (Long Live Love) (1938), ‘Yawm Sa’id‘ (Happy Day) (1939), ‘Mamnou’a El Hub’ (Love Is Forbidden) (1942), ‘Rossassa Fel Qalb‘ (A Bullet in the Heart) (1944), ‘Lastu Mallakan’ (I’m No Angel) (1947) and ‘Ghazal Al Banat’ (The Flirtation of Girls) (1949).

Then, he stepped away from acting to focus on singing and composing, collaborating often with the legendary singer Umm Kulthum.

In 1991, Abdel Wahab, who had tied the knot three times, died in his hometown Cairo, Egypt due to a stroke.