Fadumo Qasim Hilowle: Somalia’s Greatest Female Vocalist
It is the 80s, and it is evening in the lovely city of Mogadishu. The breeze from the ocean cooled down the city, and most people are having fun outside. The lovely music is coming from the band who are playing the Banaadiri rhythms, a Middle Eastern-like sound, but what made the evening so lovely is the girl who is wearing the shiny dress with the golden voice; Fadumo Qasim. As Fadumo Qasim’s enchanting voice fills the air, the crowd is captivated by her mesmerizing performance. Her melodic tunes blend harmoniously with the rhythmic beats, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and bliss. The energy in the city is contagious, as people dance and sing along, embracing the vibrant spirit of Mogadishu’s nightlife.
Renowned and loved by so many, Fadumo Qasim was an icon singer in this era. This young woman’s talent stood among those decades where Somalia’s music was at its best. Fadumo Qasim Hilowle’s talent transcends cultural boundaries, resonating with audiences of all backgrounds. Her ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level is a testament to her universal appeal. Whether she is performing in Mogadishu or on an international stage, Fadumo Qasim Hilowle’s enchanting voice continues to leave a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of experiencing her artistry.
Faadumo was known as Faynuuska Fanka (the lantern of art). Fadumo was unique in so many ways: she had a golden voice, amazing performances, started singing at a very young age, and was from a family of musicians (her father Qaasim Hilowle was a great artist, her sister Muslima Qaasim is a musician, and her children; Ilma Karaama are both singers and musicians). Her father Qaasim Hilowle was a renowned poet and artist. His songs were mainly national songs and he sang in three different languages; Somali, Italian and Arabic. He was well remembered singing Somalia’s national anthem
‘Soomaliyeey Toosoo
Toosoo isku tiirsada e
Hadba kiina taagdaranee
Taageera weligiine’
‘O wake up Somalis, wake up
And lean onto one another
Whoever is your weakest
Forever you support him’
Fadumo was six years old when she started singing, and she was one of the first few females that sang at Radio Mogadishu. A part from her family support, Axmed Naaji; the great Somali melodist and musician supported Fadumo’s artistic journey. Faadumo’s talent and passion for music were evident from a young age, and her family’s musical background undoubtedly influenced her artistic journey. Her early exposure to the industry allowed her to become one of the pioneering female voices in Somali music, making a significant impact on the cultural landscape of Somalia.
The first time I heard a banaadiri song I instantly liked without knowing it that it was a banaadiri song. I just knew it was a special song, that song was; ‘Aaway hee, inankii aan is arkoonayee – Where is he, the man I encountered earlier by the Fadumo Qasim. I fell in love with Fadumo’s songs as i was mesmerized by her unique, soothing voice and performance. Interestingly the first time I noticed the Banaadiri performance was when I was watching the song ‘Ceelka soo jiidee’ by again Fadumo Qasim. I cannot think of Banaadiri music without thinking of Fadumo. Her songs have become synonymous with the Banadiri music genre for me. Fadumo Qasim’s talent and artistry truly captured the essence of Banadiri music, making her an iconic figure in its history.
Her renownded songs include;
1. ‘Aaway hee, inankii is arkoonaye
Aaway hee, Arragiis ma ilaawine’
‘Where is he, the man I encountered earlier
Where is he, I haven’t forgot his face’
2. ‘Waan kaa helaa
Wallee waa iiga wacadee
Ila wadee wixi aan kaa rabee’
‘I love you
I promise you that
So continue with me
What I desire from you’
3. ‘Ciyow biyaha keen
Cidaa oomanee
Caweys ii ciyaar dhaafee
Ceelka soo jiide’
‘Bring the water quickly,
the people are thirsty
So stop dancing and clabbing
And draw water for us’
4. ‘Xiddigaygi aa tahay ii
Xareed ii da’dee
Xeebtii xamar adigaan
Kaa soo xushee’
‘You are my star
And pure rainwater
I’ve chosen you from all the men
On the beaches of Xamar’
We cannot discuss Banaadiri music without mentioning the great Banadiri Singers and Song writers: Qaasim Hilowle, Axmed Naaji, Axmed Shariif, Shimaali Axmed Shimaali, Sulfa, Caasha Cabdoow Luul Jaylaani, Maki Xaaji Banaadir, Dr Raafi, Aweys Geedoow, Abdiqadir Nuuraani, and the many others who laid the foundation of this genre of Somali music. We cannot forget the famous Shareero band. These artists and bands played a crucial role in popularizing Banadiri music not only within the Somali community but even in neighboring counties. Their unique blend of traditional Somali melodies with modern instruments and arrangements created a distinctive sound that continues to influence contemporary Somali music to this day.
The Banaadiri music is a different unique genre of Somali music. This type of music is known for its amazing performances, acting and its unique rhythm and melody. It’s melody is believed to be influenced by different artistic styles mainly from Kiswahili, Arab and Indian. The reason why performance plays a huge role in Banadiri music is because it is based on dance performances. Historically, it is been said that Banadiri music started from folklore dances by Somalia’s southern community who were farmers. Those farmers were originally from Bantu; a minority group in Somalia. These farmers would gather together during celebrations and perform traditional dances accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and other traditional instruments. Over time, these dances evolved into a distinct genre of music known as Banaadiri, characterized by its lively rhythms and energetic dance routines. Today, despite being a minority community in Somalia, they contribute a lot to the sectors of agriculture, art, and technical skills and Banaadiri music continues to be cherished and celebrated as an integral part of Somali cultural heritage.
Music and Literature was and still is part of Somali Culture. Spoken word, poetry and songs are a great source of entertainment, education and awarenesses. Looking back to Faadumo’s great performances and other band plays likeWaaberi back in the days just reminds you of what Somalia has lost throughout the years. The vibrant music and literature scene in Somalia not only provided entertainment but also served as a powerful medium for cultural expression, storytelling and awareness. It played a significant role in fostering a sense of identity and unity among the Somali people. Unfortunately, due to years of conflict and instability, this rich artistic heritage has suffered greatly, leaving a void that is deeply felt by the nation.