Legendary Somali Banaadiri Singer Who Brought Together Love, Culture, and Unity Passes Away at 74
MINNEAPOLIS (AXADLE)
"In the sorrowful passing of Luul Jeylaani Ali, the world said goodbye to a beacon of Somali song and dance," pronounced Omar Shariif Jeeg, her family spokesperson. A towering figure in Somali arts, Luul, aged 74, slipped from this earthly stage on December 30, 2024, in Minneapolis, USA. Though she was far from her homeland, her spirit remained intertwined with the sand and sea of Somalia.
A Stalwart of Somali Culture
Despite being stateside, Luul’s life was a tapestry woven with the vibrant threads of Somali music and cultural prowess. Recognized for her Banaadiri tunes and commanding presence in theater, Luul amassed an impressive array of lyrical treasures that continue to resonate deeply. Her timeless role at Mogadishu’s iconic Murtida iyo Madadaalada theater in the ’70s and ’80s remains etched in the annals of history. This golden age saw Somali arts reaching sumptuous heights, in large part due to her influence.
Her famous tracks? Each a gem: “Ebadkaa Ogow Ishaada Meesha U Roon,” “Riixaanta Jannaad,” “Beerkaad Iiga Taallaa,” and “Dunidaan,” to name a few. These songs touched on love, community, and cultural pride, bringing listeners under the spell of her beguiling voice.
Navigating Life’s Tempests
Yet behind the enchanting performances lay realities of struggle. After a surgical procedure led to unfortunate complications, Luul faced the amputation of a leg, which she braved with typical resilience. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long after that she took her final bow.
To the Somali diaspora and beyond, Luul’s songs were not just entertainment but a lifeline – a reminder of home. She collaborated with stalwarts like Aweys Qamiis and Ahmed Naajid Saad, leaving an indelible mark on Somali music’s timeline.
Legacy of Love
One performance that encapsulates her legacy is "Gallad." This song captures a poignant dance between gratitude and love, resonating deeply across generations. With lyrics evocative of shared hardships and love’s persistence, Luul’s voice carried notes that stirred emotions like leaves in the wind:
"A man plants sorghum in a pit,
to harvest it when rains bless the land,
never missing what he sows,
such gratitude must flourish."
Community Advocate and Diaspora Influence
Luul’s journey also involved chapters of advocacy. After Somalia’s upheaval, she became a stalwart in the Somali diaspora. In the U.S., she remained an ambassador of heritage, voicing hopes for a land yearning toward peace. Her advocacy wasn’t just about nostalgia; it was about building bridges and nurturing a sense of belonging amidst displacement.
Those who knew Luul speak of her gentleness, her courage and how she breathed life into songs that became anthems of hope. In her departure, the world of Somali music has lost one of its finest luminaries. Her work evokes memories of home, echoes resilience, and above all, sets a benchmark for future generations.
Gone but Never Forgotten
Now, as her music wafts through airwaves and halls globally, may it carry her warmth, wisdom, and indomitable spirit. May Luul, blessed with talent and heart, be granted eternal peace and mercy in the hereafter. Her music will forever echo with those who find solace in its melodies and power within its words.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
