Lebanese singer Nancy Ajram’s plans to sing at the Tunisian International Music Festival have been cancelled due to a number of unexpected misfortunes. It was revealed that the singer was not able to get a visa and make flight reservations for her trip due to the lack of making prior arrangements.
According to the London based Elaph, it was added that the organizers of the festival failed in getting permission from the mayor’s office of the city she was to hold her concert in and so did not advertise for her concert, which was to take place on July 21, 2002.
For these reasons the singer is unable to be part of the festival, in turn upsetting her since she was very eager to sing in Tunisia. The singer is hopeful that in the near future she will get the opportunity to sing in Tunisia and spread her popularity to a wider scope.
During a short visit to Kuwait, to hold concerts, Ajram held a press conference with the Kuwaiti press and answered all their questions. Nancy at first expressed her joy at having the chance to sing in Kuwait and meet its people, adding that the Lebanese and Kuwaitis have always shared good relations. Nancy talked about the latest decision by the Egyptian parliament, which called for a ban of her music. Nancy stressed that their decision does not affect her in any way especially since she has not seen any implementation of the decision in addition to the fact that she already reached the hearts of the Egyptian people.
Nancy also commented on the fact that she is accused of being too seductive in her music videos, saying that every generation introduces something new to the audience and what ever the style is as long as the audience accepts it then it’s a success.
An official request by the Egyptian Parliament had been released demanding the ban of Ajram’s songs. The Parliament has ordered that all satellite and local TV stations stop the airing of Nancy’s songs, especially “Akhasmak Aah” (I’ll Upset You Yes), due to the nature of its content and the manner in which the music video is shot.
It was stated that these kinds of songs are not suitable for an Arab audience and should not be allowed to be broadcasted. The music video for the song “Akhasmak Aah” is too demeaning and does not respect the traditional Eastern values for the fact that it is filmed inside a bar and the singer undergoes dirty dancing in an attempt to seduce the male customers.
Parliament officials said that Nancy shows no form of respect for the viewers when she displays such work. It was mentioned that all necessary actions will be taken to ensure that Nancy’s music is not aired and anyone who does not abide will be faced with legal prosecution. –Albawaba.com
