On an exceptional night where nostalgia mingled with the warmth of timeless melodies, Riyadh Season witnessed one of its most distinctive and popular concerts: "Nineties Night of Makhawi Al-Layl," held Thursday evening at the Abu Bakr Salem Theater. Organized by Benchmark, the concert was more than just a fleeting musical evening; it was a journey through time, transporting the audience back to the golden age of Saudi folk and classical music, defying the chilly weather with the fervor of their enthusiastic response.
Evoking the good old days and the symbolism of the nineties
This evening's significance stems from the profound symbolism of the 1990s in the collective memory of Saudi and Gulf artists. This era witnessed the widespread popularity of cassette tapes and the rise of Khalid Abdulrahman, famously known as "Makhawi Al-Layl" (Companion of the Night). This nickname was more than just a stage name; it expressed a sentiment deeply connected to the melancholic and emotionally resonant poetry that touched the hearts of an entire generation. This concert further solidifies Riyadh Season's position as a cultural and artistic platform that not only presents new material but also celebrates the artistic icons who have shaped the Kingdom's musical identity for decades.
Saad Jumaa... The authenticity of folk art
The evening began with a performance by the esteemed artist Saad Jumaa, a pillar of Saudi folk music. With his unique style and dignified presence, Jumaa presented a musical set that evoked the masterpieces of authentic folk art, seamlessly transitioning between the various musical modes he masters. The audience's enthusiastic response to his songs was not spontaneous, but rather a continuation of a long history of works that have etched themselves in the memories of his fans. Saad Jumaa reaffirmed that genuine art never ages and never loses its brilliance with the passage of time.
Khaled Abdulrahman... an icon of emotion
The grand finale featured the popular artist Khaled Abdulrahman, known as "Makhawi Al-Layl" (Companion of the Night), who was greeted by a thunderous ovation. As always, Khaled generously treated his fans to a carefully curated selection from his vast repertoire, opening his set with his masterpiece "Baqaya Jrouh" (Remnants of Wounds). The songs that followed transformed into heartfelt anthems, sung by heart by the audience, such as "Sarhini" (Tell Me), "Thikra" (Memory), "Bila Mi'ad" (Without an Appointment), and "Khabarouh" (Tell Him). Khaled's performance was characterized by the genuine emotion for which he has been known since his early career, creating a profound connection between the artist and his audience, transforming the stage into a vast, collective choir.
A cultural impact that transcends the boundaries of theater
Such concerts are tangible proof of Riyadh Season's success in creating an artistic balance that satisfies all tastes and ages. Attracting stars from the 90s is not merely for entertainment; it also carries a cultural dimension, connecting new generations with their artistic heritage and introducing them to the artistic figures who laid the foundations for modern Saudi song. The large audience turnout, despite the cold weather, reflects the great thirst for this type of authentic art and the ability of entertainment events in the Kingdom to create an artistic movement with broad local and regional impact.
