'The weapons were loud, but there was always music': Sudanese band play on through the war
Summary
Members of the Sudanese band Aswat Almadina continue to make music and spread messages of peace despite being scattered across different countries due to the ongoing war in Sudan. Their songs address social issues and have inspired many, especially young people, even as Sudan faces a severe humanitarian crisis with millions displaced.Key Facts
- Aswat Almadina is a popular Sudanese band formed in 2014 that mixes Middle Eastern folk, urban pop, and jazz music.
- The band’s members left Sudan after the 2023 conflict began, witnessing violence and destruction in Khartoum.
- Over 150,000 people have died and 12 million have fled their homes due to the war, creating a large humanitarian crisis.
- The band’s music focuses on social justice, corruption, and the struggles of young Sudanese citizens.
- Their lead singer, Ibrahem Mahmoud, was arrested multiple times before 2019 for singing songs critical of the government.
- Aswat Almadina became UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors in 2017 for their social impact through music.
- Ibrahem currently lives in Saudi Arabia, while Timon, a founding member, is based in Cairo, Egypt.
- Music played a significant role in Sudan’s 2018-2019 uprising that led to the removal of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir.
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