State of the World from NPR Egyptian Singer Umm Kulthum Still Enthralls, Fifty Years After Her Death
Feb 8, 2025
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.
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Prosecco Stockpiling
- After Donald Trump's election, U.S. Prosecco imports surged 41% in November.
- Importers feared potential tariffs on European goods, highlighting the market impact of trade actions.
Kulthum's Political Influence
- Umm Kulthum's influence extended beyond music, serving as a political tool for Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser.
- Her music helped forge a new Egyptian identity after British colonial rule.
Paris Concert
- Umm Kulthum's only concert outside the Arab world was in Paris in November 1967.
- This followed the Six-Day War, offering solace and dignity to the Arab world.