Casablanca – Kadim Al Sahir is a singer who has the rare ability to win hearts effortlessly, captivating listeners across generations – and especially women. But what is it that makes him so universally beloved?
Known as the “caesar of Arab song,” Al Sahir is an Iraqi artist born in Mosul on 12 September 1957. He began his musical journey in the 1980s, quickly establishing himself as a voice that blends the rich traditions of classical Arabic music with contemporary styles.
From the early stages of his career, a defining characteristic of his music became clear: his songs are almost always about love and women. That alone may offer a first clue as to why so many women are drawn to him.
Yet it is not only about the theme. It is about the way he delivers it. His songs unfold like journeys through delicate melodies and carefully chosen words, like a dream you never want to wake up from. This is the magic of Al Qayssar.
A rare harmony
When we think of Kadim Al Sahir, our minds often turn to the renowned Syrian poet Nizar Qabbani. Many of Al Qayssar’s most iconic songs were originally poems written by Qabbani, widely known as the poet of women.
What else could one expect from a collaboration that brings together two such powerful figures?
Al Sahir’s emotive delivery and Qabbani’s evocative verses form a rare harmony. Listening to them, one almost hesitates, unsure whether to fall for the warmth of the voice or the depth of the words.
And it is not only in his songs. In interviews as well, Al Sahir never misses an opportunity to praise women. Even without music, his spontaneous words often sound like carefully composed poetry.
A glimpse of this harmony between voice and verse appears in “Qoulee Ouhibbouka,” one of the most cherished collaborations between Al Sahir and Qabbani.
Here is a translation of a few verses, though no translation can truly capture the beauty of the original Arabic:
“I would change the calendar if you loved me
Erase seasons, or add seasons
The old era would end under my hands
And I would establish a kingdom of women in its place.”
With such words and such devotion to celebrating women, is there a point to asking why Kadim Al Sahir is so loved? As such, perhaps the better question should be: how could he not be?
So this may be your sign to revisit his songs and let yourself drift into his world.
