27/09/2023
A Moroccan Icon: Hajja El Hamdaouia (1930-2021)
Born in 1930 in Casablanca, Hajja El Hamdaouia, whose real name is Fatima El Gout, was an iconic figure in Moroccan music - a woman of exceptional talent and an extraordinary life.
She was one of the prominent voices of Aïta Marsaouiya (a genre she contributed to elevating far beyond Morocco), and left an indelible mark on multiple generations. With a career spanning over half a century, her legendary status endures to this day.
Aïta, literally meaning "the call," originated in rural areas, with Hajja Hamdaouia's Aïta born in Casablanca's port (marsa) during colonial times.
She began her career in the 50s and her path was anything but easy, as her choice to pursue this career challenged societal norms. In many ways, she was an avant-garde artist and feminist icon.
In 1959, she took the stage with an orchestra,- a groundbreaking move during a time when Aïta was on the fringes. Her blend of Aïta with Chaâbi and incorporation of modern instruments made her a groundbreaking figure. Her performances were elegant and her lyrics powerful. This propelled her to national stardom.
Through her art, she addressed various topics, openly expressing her femininity and discussing love. Some of her famous songs include "Daba Yji" and "Hna mada bina."
Hajja El Hamdaouia was not only a unique singer but also an activist who used her fame to take actions against French colonial occupation during the colonization era. She traveled through cities with concealed weapons under her caftans. And in 1953, she composed one of her iconic hit, "Wailli a chibani," denouncing the removal of Sultan Mohammed V and fearlessly caricaturing Ben Arafa, the illegitimate Sultan.
In 2020, she announced her retirement, weakened by illness, after dedicating a lifetime to Moroccan music.
She passed away last year, at the age of 91 in Rabat, and her life was marked by colonialism, exile, and fame. She was a pioneer who left an enduring legacy in Moroccan music.
"Zidou bina elkeddam, ila khyabet daba tzyan" from her iconic song “Hazou bina l’aalam", conveys hope for a better future, reflecting the resilience and spirit of the Moroccan people.
Music is a universal language, and every culture has its music icons. Who is your favorite music legend from your own culture or country? Share their name and your favorite song by them! 🌍