Egyptian Singer Umm Kulthum Still Enthralls, Fifty Years After Her Death
Feb 8, 2025
auto_awesome
Experience the enduring legacy of Umm Kulthum, the iconic Egyptian singer whose music continues to resonate in the Arab world, even fifty years later. Discover how her powerful voice and emotional depth shaped Egyptian identity and provided solace in tumultuous times. Additionally, learn about the recent surge in Prosecco imports fueled by U.S. tariff threats, revealing the complexities of international trade and the concerns of Italian producers facing potential challenges.
Umm Kulthum's music significantly shaped Arab identity, showcasing her power to unite diverse audiences during politically charged times.
The recent tariff threats on European goods, particularly Prosecco, highlight the broader impact of trade policies on various cultural industries.
Deep dives
Impact of Tariff Threats on American Consumers
Recent tariff threats have led Americans to stockpile popular imported goods, particularly Italian Prosecco, which saw a 41% increase in imports following the election of Donald Trump. Concerns about the potential for new tariffs on European products have caused consumers to worry about the availability and affordability of their favorite indulgences. The Secretary General of the Union of Italian Wines Trade Association, Paolo Castelletti, highlighted that such tariffs could significantly impact not only consumer prices but also threaten the Italian wine industry's exports to the U.S., which constitute a substantial portion of its business. Additionally, the head of Italy's fashion chamber has urged the government to act in order to protect the country's economy from potential trade repercussions, underscoring the wide-ranging effects of international trade policies on various industries.
Legacy of Um Khalsum in Arabic Music
Um Khalsum, an iconic figure in Arabic music, left a lasting legacy that continues to resonate, as demonstrated by recent commemorative concerts held in Paris. Her powerful voice and emotionally charged love songs captivated audiences, reflecting her significant role in shaping Arab identity during a politically turbulent time. The performances paid homage to her historic concert in 1967, which drew diverse crowds amid the backdrop of regional conflict, further illustrating her ability to unite people across ethnic and religious lines. Even decades after her passing, Um Khalsum’s music remains a vital part of cultural expression, with many still experiencing profound emotional connections to her songs in venues around the world.