Rafik Shukri

Classic Live Concerts

• Layali w Mawawil
• Ruhi Ya Ruhi (My Soul, Oh My Soul)

• Khalli Al Habaieb Ysallimu (Let the Lovers Be Safe)
• Ya Hnienah Enta w Ana (Oh Kind One, You and I)
• Shufiha Law Albi Habbak (What If My Heart Loves You)
• Mu'jizati (My Miracle)

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This cassette, compiled by Mohammed Al Masri (Bulbul Al Shark) in Damascus, features classic concert performances by Syrian artist Rafik Shukri (1923–1969). Rafik Shukri was a Syrian singer who achieved wide fame during the 1950s and played a significant role in the country’s musical and broadcasting history during the mid-20th century. Active from the 1940s through the 1960s, Shukri was among the early contributors to Radio Damascus, where he worked until his passing in 1969. Shukri began his career as an oud player before turning to singing, performing songs that explored themes of love, family, and national identity. His body of work includes Qasam al-Awda (The Oath of Return), a song dedicated to the Palestinian people in the aftermath of the 1948 Nakba, as well as Nashid al-Jihad (The Anthem of Struggle), written by poet Suleiman Al Issa. He also sang lyrics by poet Nizar Qabbani and composed for leading artists such as Karawan and Mary Jubran. In addition to his work with Radio Damascus, Shukri recorded and broadcast with several regional stations, including Voice of the Arabs in Cairo, Near East Radio in Haifa, and Baghdad Radio. These recordings offer a glimpse into a period of rich musical activity across the Arab world, with Shukri’s voice standing out as one of its enduring contributions.