Resisting dictatorship, sectarianism and war through music in Syria
I was very young when the uprising started in my hometown, Idlib. I had to adjust to living in a war-torn territory and face countless losses of family and friends. To channel all this and manage to stay sane and hopeful in this context, I focus on creating songs that give voice to a population under siege, men and women who were resisting bombardment and attacks on different fronts from armies and geopolitical interests. My most popular song, which was widely covered by international media, is “On All Fronts.”
In my work, I like to particularly focus on Syrian youth, on how they interact with their war-torn territories and where they find hope, including through training disciplines such as parkour. I am also very invested in exploring how technology and digital platforms allow populations under siege to be present and connect with international audiences. And most of all, I am dedicated to honoring the Syrian memory, including the detainees and disappeared, sharing a tribute to all those who sacrificed so much for freedom, justice and dignity.
Credits
Director: Yaman Antabli
Composer: Fares Dannan
Lyrics and singing: Amir Almuarri
