Egypt
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Sayed Mekawy
Cairo, Egypt
Archival Overview
Iconic blind Egyptian composer, singer, and cultural legend known as 'Sheikh Sayed', whose masterful operetta 'El Leila El Kebira' and timeless popular songs preserved and elevated authentic Egyptian folklore to universal acclaim.
Biographical Record
Losing his sight in infancy, Mekawy memorized the Quran and mastered classical Sufi chanting and Andalusian muwashahat in Cairo's Sayyida Zaynab district. Collaborating with poet Salah Jahin, he created the puppet musical El Leila El Kebira, Egypt's most famous theatrical work.
He revived the traditional Ramadan night caller (Al-Mesaharaty) on Egyptian radio and television, performing accompanied solely by his rhythmic drum and soulful voice. He composed timeless hits for Umm Kulthum ('Ya Mesaharni') and Warda.
Key Life Milestones
Premiere of 'El Leila El Kebira'
Composed Egypt's most celebrated folkloric musical operetta depicting the joyous spectacle of the Moulid.
Premiere of 'El Leila El Kebira'
Composed Egypt's most celebrated folkloric musical operetta depicting the joyous spectacle of the Moulid.
Premiere of 'El Leila El Kebira'
Composed Egypt's most celebrated folkloric musical operetta depicting the joyous spectacle of the Moulid.
Composition of 'Ya Mesaharni'
Penned the beloved, rhythmically captivating masterpiece for Umm Kulthum's celebrated monthly concerts.
Composition of 'Ya Mesaharni'
Penned the beloved, rhythmically captivating masterpiece for Umm Kulthum's celebrated monthly concerts.
Composition of 'Ya Mesaharni'
Penned the beloved, rhythmically captivating masterpiece for Umm Kulthum's celebrated monthly concerts.
Memorial Guestbook & Tributes
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Final Resting Place
Perpetual MemorialCairo, Egypt