Yemeni arts are among the oldest in the South of Arabia and hold a certain quality from this. This recognition has come into existence through strenuous efforts made by Yemeni singers over time and now can be heard in the music of artists such as, Mohammed Saad Abdullah, according to Yemen Times.
It is a great sorrow to see many creative talents not given due attention by their countrymen. It is because of this their work disappears with their passing.
An exception to this is Mohammed Saad Abdullah. He was a contemporary writer who greatly contributed to the development of the Yemeni song. Furthermore he was strongly influenced by his father another great singer, so we are able to appreciate the passing of tradition.
He died from a chronic disease a few months ago. The loss of this great singer is a loss to Yemen. His songs were appreciated not only in Yemen but also in the Arab world.
Abdullah’s first song was “What a lovely night it is!” composed by Mohammed Abdo Ghanem. He was admired by the great Yemeni composers such as, Mohammed Said Garadah, Lutfi Gafaar Aman and Ahmed al Jaberi.
Abdullah presented everlasting works of art and formed a special Musical school. Many singers chant his lyrics such as Hiyam Yunis of Lebanon and Talal Maddah and Abadi al Johar of Saudi Arabia.
Since the establishment of the Adani Music Union, Abdullah was one of its distinguished members. The union was led by the singer Mohammed Khalil.
Khalil stated that the loss of this musician is a considerable loss for the artistic movement in the country. This great musician has left a deep note in our memory and not only among Yemenis but also the whole of the Arab world.
Abdullah was born in 1938 in Lahaj. He led a very hard life during his childhood, considering that his father died while he was still 10 years old. After finishing his secondary schooling, Abdullah left his birthplace with his mother and went to Aden. He worked as the director of the music department in Channel 2 in 1982. He represented the state in many Arab and international festivals.
Abdullah later immigrated to Saudi Arabia where he lived for about 4 years. There he presented several musical recitals. He also published his first collection of poems - "Fires of Longing." It includes all of his lyrics. He produced a collection of songs on a cassette tape entitled Jawal. It included classical songs performed with modern musical instruments.
He returned to Yemen in 1990. He made numerous artistic contributions through patriotic songs and musicals. He translated his ardent patriotism into songs at the beginning of September 26 revolution in order to establish the republican regime. Some of these songs are “Republic Republic, we made it” and “Ours is the country of revolutionaries.”
Abdullah became a companion of several old artists such as Ahmed al Qatabi, al Makawi and Anwar Ahmed Qassem. He also worked with artist Ahmed Awad al Jarash as a drummer. A rhythm controller was supposed to be fully knowledgeable of some of post classical forms of Yemeni poetry (muashahat), which are called “Sanaani songs.” So he was one of a few singers who are able to sing, and play music for, Sanaani songs – Albawaba.com
