Mohamed Mounir Blends Indigenous and Western Music

Mohamed Mounir, the first Nubian singer has established himself as a major star in the Egyptian music world, through his distinguished ability to combine between the indigenous music of his native land and modern Western music, particularly Jazz.  

Born in Aswan in Nuba, south Egypt, Mohamed launched his singing career while completing his military service in the Egyptian army and his debut album was recorded in 1979. He would then go on to give up his job as a cameraman so that he could devote all his time and energy to his singing career.  

Mohamed's singing style and the emotion he puts into his performances are typically Nubian, but his voice is influenced by modern Western music as well as traditional Egyptian rhythms.  

According to Khaleej Times, the celebrated artist is a passionate jazz and reggae fan, and cites Miles Davis, Bob Marley and Otis Redding as a major inspiration on his songwriting. 

Mohamed Mounir has also made a name as an actor, working with the legendary Egyptian director Youssef Chahine.  

In Chahine's latest film "the Destiny,” Mohamed fuses his two careers through playing the role of a singer. "The Destiny" has already won great critical acclaim in Europe and won a special prize at the 50th Cannes Film Festival in 1997 – Albawaba.com 

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